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For a child, losing baby teeth is a rite of passage that marks a transition toward being more grown up. It’s a normal occurrence, but your child may feel a bit anxious about the process. The pediatric dentists at Pedodontic Associates serve families on Oahu and Maui and understand the concern kids and parents have about losing baby teeth. With that in mind, here are some things you should know.

5 Things Pediatric Dentists Want You To Know About Losing Baby Teeth

When Does This Process Happen?

By age three, most children will have 20 primary teeth. Typically, all of these “baby teeth” will begin to fall out between the ages of six and 13. For many kids, the baby teeth fall out in the same order that they emerged. For instance, by age eight, most kids have lost their front lower and upper teeth. And by 13, the primary molars will probably have fallen out. As the primary teeth are lost, they will be replaced by permanent adult teeth. The entire process is usually complete between the ages of 17 and 21.

Why Is Taking Care Of Baby Teeth So Important?

Pediatric DentistTaking care of baby teeth prevents cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease that will undermine the good oral health that’s needed to support strong adult teeth. Early dental problems can also affect your child’s jaw bone development, so it’s essential to stay vigilant when it comes to brushing and flossing.

Is It Normal For My Child To Wiggle A Loose Tooth?

Losing baby teeth isn’t very painful, and many kids will try to wiggle or play with loose teeth. This is normal, and to be encouraged as long as they attempt it with clean hands. You also should tell your child to be careful not to swallow a loose tooth.

My Child’s Adult Teeth Haven’t Grown In Yet. Should I Be Concerned?

Losing teeth, like other growth milestones, varies naturally from child to child. If you’re concerned about your child’s development, schedule an exam with a pediatric dentist.

What About The Tooth Fairy?

This time-honored bit of make-believe has soothed many kids’ anxieties about losing baby teeth. You can use the occasion to educate children on the importance of regular brushing and good oral hygiene, too. If you’re looking for a creative way to encourage your child to brush, check out Pedodontic Associates’ Toothfairy Letter.

To learn more about childhood dental care, visit Pedodontic Associates online. If you live in Aiea, call (808) 487-7933 to schedule an appointment; if you’re in Honolulu, call (808) 735-1733; or to see a pediatric dentist in Kahului, call (808) 877-0066. You can also connect with the kids’ dentist practice on Twitter for more oral hygiene tips.

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