One of the most exciting milestones in childhood is when a child’s baby teeth start coming in, and later, when they begin to fall out. These little teeth not only help your child eat and speak but also serve as placeholders for their permanent teeth. Understanding when teeth are supposed to erupt and fall out can give parents peace of mind and help them know when to schedule dental visits. Here’s a simple guide to the timeline of baby teeth and what to expect along the way.
When Baby Teeth Come In
Most children start teething around 6 months of age, though the timing can vary. By the time they are about 3 years old, most kids have a complete set of 20 primary teeth. The general order of eruption goes like this:
- 6–10 months: Lower central incisors (the two bottom front teeth) usually come in first.
- 8–12 months: Upper central incisors (top front teeth) appear.
- 9–13 months: Upper lateral incisors (next to the top front teeth).
- 10–16 months: Lower lateral incisors.
- 13–19 months: First molars (back teeth used for chewing).
- 16–23 months: Canines (pointed teeth next to the molars).
- 23–33 months: Second molars finish the set.
It’s important to remember that every child is different. Some may teethe earlier or later, but as long as the sequence is progressing, it’s usually not a cause for concern.
When Baby Teeth Fall Out
Baby teeth start to loosen and fall out when permanent teeth are ready to push through. This typically begins around age 6 and continues until around age 12 or 13. Here’s a general order of tooth loss:
- 6–7 years: Lower and upper central incisors (front teeth).
- 7–8 years: Lower and upper lateral incisors.
- 9–11 years: First molars.
- 10–12 years: Canines.
- 10–12 years: Second molars.
By the time your child reaches their early teenage years, most will have all their permanent teeth except for wisdom teeth, which usually appear between 17 and 21 years old.
Why the Timeline Matters
Baby teeth may seem temporary, but they play a big role in oral health. They help your child chew properly, develop clear speech, and guide permanent teeth into their correct positions. If a baby tooth falls out too early (due to injury or decay), it can cause spacing or alignment problems for adult teeth later on.
How Parents Can Help
Here are some ways you can help with your little one’s oral development:
- Encourage good oral hygiene from the very first tooth with gentle brushing and flossing.
- Schedule dental visits by your child’s first birthday to monitor healthy development.
- Don’t pull loose teeth too early. Let them fall out naturally to avoid pain or infection.
- Stay positive. Losing teeth can be a little scary for kids, but celebrating milestones—like visits from the tooth fairy—can make it fun.
Baby teeth follow a general schedule of coming in from about 6 months to 3 years and falling out from ages 6 to 12. While every child is unique, knowing the typical timeline helps you prepare for each stage. With good dental care and regular checkups, your child’s baby teeth will set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
About the Practice
Are you looking for a dental practice to trust your child’s oral health with? Our expert team here at G&G Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics of Lake Zurich will provide your little one with the very best care available, whether it’s a simple dental checkup and cleaning, dental sealants, fluoride treatment and more! We’ll also provide helpful tips and tricks that you can use at home while recommending beneficial services to safeguard their smile. Schedule an appointment online or call (630) 238-1748.