Baby Teeth 101: When They Fall Out, What’s Normal, and When to Worry

When Should Baby Teeth Start Falling Out?

That wiggly front tooth might mean your child is entering a big milestone—but is the timing right? Parents often ask “when do baby teeth fall out?” and the truth is, every child’s baby teeth timeline is slightly different. Still, there are patterns we look for to ensure healthy development.

When do baby teeth fall out?

• Most children begin losing teeth around age 6.
• Teeth usually fall out in the same order they came in.
• By the early teen years, most kids will have a full set of permanent teeth.

What age do kids start losing teeth?

• Ages 6–7: Front bottom teeth are usually the first to go.
• Ages 10–12: Back molars start to fall out.
• By 12–13: Most kids have completed the permanent teeth eruption schedule.

The Normal Timeline of Tooth Loss

While there’s always some variation, here’s a kids tooth chart that outlines the general baby teeth timeline:

• 6–7 years: Lower central incisors (bottom front teeth)
• 7–8 years: Upper central incisors (top front teeth)
• 8–10 years: Lateral incisors (next to the front teeth)
• 9–11 years: First molars and canines
• 10–12 years: Second molars

By age 12–13, the permanent teeth eruption schedule is usually complete.

Early Tooth Loss: What Causes It and When to Call the Dentist

If your child loses a tooth earlier than expected, it could be a sign to visit a Greeley pediatric dentist. Common causes of early tooth loss in children include:

• Trauma from falls, sports, or accidents
• Severe cavities or tooth decay
• Certain health conditions that weaken teeth or gums

Why it matters:

• Baby teeth serve as natural space holders for permanent teeth.
• Early tooth loss in children can lead to shifting teeth and alignment problems later.
• A dentist may recommend space maintainers to protect your child’s smile.

Late Baby Tooth Loss: Should You Be Concerned?

Some kids hold onto their baby teeth longer than expected, but sometimes late baby tooth loss signals an underlying issue.

When to consider it a concern:

• Teeth haven’t started falling out by age 7–8
• Permanent teeth are visible but baby teeth are still in place
• Your child is past age 13 with several baby teeth remaining

How we evaluate at Greeley Kids Dental:

• X-rays help us check if permanent teeth are developing correctly.
• We can identify crowding, impacted teeth, or missing permanent teeth.

Even if it’s just late baby tooth loss, our goal is to reassure families and provide the right plan for healthy development.

What If a Permanent Tooth Is Coming In Too Soon?

Sometimes parents notice a permanent tooth popping up before the baby tooth has fallen out.

What to monitor:

• Double rows of teeth (“shark teeth”)
• Gum irritation or pain
• Baby tooth that isn’t loosening

When to book a visit with a Greeley pediatric dentist:

• If the baby tooth doesn’t fall out within a few weeks
• If your child is experiencing discomfort
• To confirm the permanent teeth eruption schedule is on track

Questions About Your Child’s Smile? We’re Here.

Whether you’re worried teeth are falling out too fast—or not at all—we’re here to help with expert children’s dental care in Greeley. Let’s protect your child’s future smile—together. Call Greeley Kids Dental today to book an appointment.