Watching your child lose their first tooth is an exciting milestone. It marks the start of their journey from babyhood to their permanent smile. But for many parents, it also raises questions: When do children start losing teeth? Is it normal if it happens early—or late? And how can you keep their mouth healthy through it all?
This guide explains everything you need to know about when and how children lose their baby teeth, what to expect at each stage, and how to look after your child’s oral health. It’s written in clear, plain English so every parent can feel confident caring for their child’s developing smile.
1. Understanding How Children’s Teeth Develop
Before children lose any teeth, it helps to understand how their dental journey begins. Your child’s first set of teeth are called primary teeth, or baby teeth.
When Baby Teeth Come In
Most babies start teething between 6 and 12 months of age. By around 3 years old, your child will usually have a full set of 20 baby teeth — 10 on the top and 10 on the bottom.
Why Baby Teeth Matter
Even though baby teeth are temporary, they play a big role in your child’s health and development. They help with:
- Chewing – helping your child enjoy a wide range of foods.
- Speech – forming sounds and words correctly.
- Jaw development – guiding adult teeth into the right position.
Healthy baby teeth also make brushing, eating, and smiling comfortable. That’s why dental care should start early and continue as soon as the first tooth appears.
2. When Do Children Start Losing Their Baby Teeth?
Most children start losing their first teeth around the age of 6 years old. The process continues slowly until they’re about 12 years old, when most of their adult teeth have come in.
This transition from baby teeth to permanent teeth is called the mixed dentition stage — a period when both types of teeth are present in the mouth.
Typical Timeline
- Ages 5–7: Front teeth (incisors) start to loosen and fall out.
- Ages 7–9: First adult molars appear behind the baby teeth.
- Ages 9–12: Canines and back baby molars fall out, replaced by permanent ones.
- Ages 12–13: Most children have a full set of adult teeth, apart from wisdom teeth.
Every child is different. Some start earlier, some later. Losing a tooth at 5 or 7 is usually normal, as long as the teeth come in roughly in order and without pain or swelling.
3. What Affects the Timing of Tooth Loss?
Several factors influence when children lose their teeth. While there’s no exact timetable, these are the most common reasons for variation:
- Genetics: If you or your partner lost teeth early, your child might too.
- Nutrition: A healthy diet supports strong teeth and bone development.
- Overall health: Long-term illness or vitamin deficiencies can delay tooth eruption.
- Dental hygiene: Poor oral care can lead to decay, causing baby teeth to fall out early.
If your child’s teeth seem unusually delayed or fall out much earlier than expected, a dentist should examine them to rule out any underlying issues.
4. Which Baby Teeth Fall Out First?
Baby teeth usually fall out in the same order they arrived. The typical sequence is:
- Lower central incisors – the two bottom front teeth are usually the first to go.
- Upper central incisors – followed by the two top front teeth.
- Lateral incisors – the teeth next to the front ones.
- First molars – back teeth used for chewing.
- Canines – the pointed teeth near the front.
- Second molars – the last of the baby teeth, often lost around age 12.
This order helps ensure that new adult teeth have enough space to come in properly. If your child’s tooth loss happens out of sequence, it’s worth checking in with their dentist.
5. What Are the Signs a Tooth Is About to Fall Out?
You might notice one or more of the following signs that your child’s baby tooth is getting ready to fall out:
- The tooth feels wobbly or loose when they touch it with their tongue.
- The gums around the tooth may look slightly red or swollen.
- Your child may mention mild soreness when eating or brushing.
Once a tooth becomes loose, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to fall out naturally. Encourage your child to wiggle it gently — but don’t pull it before it’s ready, as this can cause bleeding or infection.
6. How to Care for Your Child’s Mouth During Tooth Loss
Good oral hygiene is vital during this stage. Follow these simple tips to keep your child’s mouth clean and comfortable:
Daily Care
- Brush teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Use a soft-bristled brush to avoid irritating sensitive gums.
- Encourage your child to spit out toothpaste but not rinse with water — this keeps fluoride working longer.
- Floss once a day as new gaps appear between teeth.
Healthy Diet
- Offer foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, like milk, cheese, and eggs.
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks to reduce the risk of cavities.
- Encourage water as the main drink between meals.
Managing Loose Teeth
- Let teeth fall out naturally. Avoid tying strings or pulling.
- Apply a clean tissue if mild bleeding occurs after a tooth falls out.
- If the area feels sore, rinse gently with warm salt water.
7. When to See a Dentist
While most children’s tooth loss follows a normal pattern, there are times when professional advice helps. Speak to a dentist if:
- Teeth fall out much earlier than age 4 or are delayed past age 7 or 8.
- Permanent teeth emerge while baby teeth are still in place (“shark teeth”).
- There’s significant pain, swelling, or gum infection.
- A baby tooth breaks and leaves part of the root behind.
Regular dental check-ups every 6 months are also recommended to monitor alignment, tooth growth, and oral hygiene.
8. Helping Your Child Feel Confident About Losing Teeth
For young children, losing teeth can be strange or even scary. Help make the experience positive by:
- Explaining that it’s a normal part of growing up.
- Celebrating each lost tooth — some families use the Tooth Fairy tradition as a fun reward.
- Showing them how to care for new gaps and emerging teeth.
Reassure your child that adult teeth are stronger and will last a lifetime with good care.
9. Frequently Asked Questions
At what age do kids lose their first tooth?
Most children lose their first tooth around age 6, though it can happen as early as 4 or as late as 7. Each child’s timeline is different.
Is it normal if my child hasn’t lost any teeth by 7?
Yes, but it’s a good idea to check with your dentist to ensure their adult teeth are developing normally under the gums.
Why did my child’s tooth fall out early?
Sometimes a fall, decay, or infection causes early loss. A dentist can assess whether it might affect how adult teeth come in.
Can baby teeth grow back?
No, once a baby tooth falls out, it won’t regrow. The permanent tooth will replace it in time.
What should I do if a tooth comes out and there’s bleeding?
Press a clean cloth or tissue on the gum for a few minutes. If bleeding doesn’t stop or gums look infected, see your dentist.
10. Key Takeaway: Support, Don’t Stress
Tooth loss is a natural, healthy part of your child’s growth. Most children follow a predictable pattern from around age six to twelve, with baby teeth making way for their permanent smile.
By maintaining good brushing habits, visiting the dentist regularly, and offering reassurance, you can make this stage simple, healthy, and even fun.
Remember: Every child develops at their own pace. If you ever feel unsure about your child’s dental development, seek advice from a qualified dentist or dental hygienist.