As a parent, you’re always looking out for your child’s health, and their dental development is no exception! Understanding when your child's teeth should erupt—meaning when new teeth come through the gums—and when they will eventually exfoliate, or naturally loosen and fall out, can help you prepare for each stage of their dental journey.
When Should My Child First See a Dentist?The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children visit a pediatric dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting—whichever comes first. Early visits help ensure that your child’s teeth are developing properly and allow us to catch any potential issues early on.
Primary (Baby) Teeth Eruption TimelineBaby teeth (also called primary teeth) begin to emerge around 6 months of age and usually finish erupting by age 3. Here’s a general timeline of when to expect each type of baby tooth:
Primary Teeth Eruption Schedule (American Academy of Pediatrics)
Baby teeth (also called primary teeth) begin to emerge around 6 months of age and usually finish erupting by age 3. Here’s a general timeline of when to expect each type of baby tooth:
Your child will have 20 baby teeth in total, which serve as placeholders for their permanent teeth.
Permanent (Adult) Teeth Eruption TimelinePermanent teeth begin to erupt around age 6, often starting with the first molars, and continue coming in until the late teens. Here’s a general timeline:
Permanent Teeth Eruption Schedule (American Academy of Pediatrics)
What to Expect During Teething and Tooth LossTeething: Baby teeth usually erupt in pairs, and teething can cause fussiness, drooling, and a desire to chew on objects. Chilled (not frozen) teething rings or a gentle gum massage can help ease discomfort.Losing Baby Teeth: As permanent teeth develop underneath the gums, their growth triggers the natural resorption of the roots of baby teeth. Without their roots for support, baby teeth become loose and eventually fall out. This process typically begins around age 6 and continues until about age 12.Spacing Issues: Some children may experience crowding, delayed eruption, or missing teeth. A pediatric dentist can monitor your child’s development and recommend orthodontic treatment if necessary.When to See a Pediatric DentistIf your child has not had their first dental visit by age 1If there are delays in tooth eruption (no teeth by 12 months or still losing baby teeth past age 13)If you notice severe crowding, misalignment, or extra teethIf your child experiences pain or swelling around the gums or jawBy keeping up with regular dental visits and practicing good oral hygiene at home, you can help ensure your child’s smile stays healthy as they grow! Have questions about your child’s teeth? Schedule an appointment today!
-Dr.Andrea
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