Yes, kids usually lose all of their baby teeth. These baby teeth, which dentists call primary teeth, are eventually replaced by permanent teeth.
The Process of Losing Baby Teeth
Children typically have 20 baby teeth. These teeth start to fall out around age 6 and continue until around age 12. This process makes way for the permanent teeth to emerge.
What Happens to Baby Teeth?
Here's a breakdown of what happens:
- Baby teeth become loose: As permanent teeth develop beneath them, the roots of the baby teeth start to dissolve.
- Teeth fall out: The baby teeth eventually become loose enough to fall out naturally.
- Permanent teeth erupt: The permanent teeth then emerge into the space left behind.
What if a Baby Tooth Doesn't Fall Out?
Usually, kids will lose all of their baby teeth to make room for their permanent teeth. However, on occasion, a baby tooth may remain in place longer than expected. If a baby tooth doesn't fall out when it should, it's important to consult a dentist. This could indicate an issue preventing the permanent tooth from erupting properly.
Timeline of Losing Teeth
| Age Range | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| 6-7 years | Usually, the first teeth to be lost are the lower central incisors (the two front teeth on the bottom). |
| 7-8 years | Next, the upper central incisors (the two front teeth on the top) are typically lost. |
| 8-12 years | The remaining baby teeth, including the molars and canines, are lost gradually. |
