Whether you’re ready or not, your child is growing, and one defining step of this process comes when their teeth start falling out. Losing baby teeth is a long process that last years, so understanding the basics of it can help you guide your child through the changes. Here is what to expect and when you might want to go see a dentist.

When it Happens

Baby teeth typically start falling out around the age of six or seven, but it can happen as early as four and as late as eight years of age. Children continue to lose their teeth to make room for permanent biters until they’re around 12 or 13.

The Process

A tooth may stay loose for several weeks or even months before it falls out. Your dentist will encourage you to let them fall out naturally, but feel free to let your child wiggle it out if it’s only barely hanging on. If the root of the tooth is still firmly attached, never force it out, which could cause pain and even an infection. 

When a tooth falls out, remind your child of the importance of good dental hygiene to help them care for their new teeth. They can still use the same toothpaste, but tell them to be gentle on their gums, which might be tender in the affected area.

A permanent tooth should begin growing in soon, and in some cases may even start pushing out the baby tooth. If a new tooth hadn’t grown in by six months, schedule a visit to the dentist.

Emotional Support

Most children get excited about the prospect of losing their teeth, but if your child seems nervous, remind them that losing baby teeth is a sign they’re becoming a big kid. Encourage them to leave their baby teeth for the tooth fairy, which can make the process fun for them.

Schedule a visit with a family dentist to accompany you and your little one through your dental journeys. Trust Chinook Family Dentistry, a clinic that’s served residents of Anchorage, AK for over 35 years with a friendly staff, state-of-the-art equipment, cosmetic dentistry, and a range of services to treat periodontal disease and other conditions. Visit their website for more information on how they care for children’s teeth, or call (907) 272-8422 to make an appointment.