When do Kids Start Losing Teeth [+4 Tips for New Parents]

Kids start losing their teeth between the ages of 5 to 6. These teeth are the milk teeth or primary teeth. 

Although children commonly lose their teeth between the ages of 5 to 6 years, this timeline might change in some kids. For instance, some kids might lose their first tooth at age 4 and vice versa.  But this is not a sign of complication. Moreover, it is normal for kids to lose four teeth at 10. 

Kids mostly lose all their primary teeth by the age of 13. 

Understanding the timing, ways, signs, and symptoms of teeth loss in a child will make the journey for parents all the more wholesome and informed. 

What are Primary teeth – The Basics of the Milk Teeth 

Primary teeth/deciduous teeth or milk teeth are the same term used for those teeth that start developing at the embryonic stage. These teeth tend to erupt around 6 months after birth. Children have 20 primary teeth, 10 upper and 10 lower. 

Why do Children have Two Sets of Primary Teeth? 

Children have two sets of primary teeth to make them accustomed to the adult teeth they will grow later. 

A child’s jaw is much smaller than an adult’s, so primary teeth are much smaller and spaced out in their jaw. That is why when a child loses one of the primary teeth, they are left with a gaping space between the teeth. 

Parents can get their children space maintainers to keep the space safe and healthy for future teeth growth. 

As the child’s jaw grows, it creates enough space to accommodate more prominent teeth. 

Kids’ Tooth Loss: Age & Types Chart

Here is a quick timeline of when your child may start losing their teeth:

The first tooth a baby loses is often the first tooth that erupts – the central incisors. 

Symptoms

Some of the common reasons why children suffer from early tooth loss are as follows: 

1. The early loss of enamel around the teeth leads to the formation of white spots, which typically go unnoticed by parents. 
2. A light brown colour cavity in one of the teeth
3. The cavity turns darker because of the inflammation. 
4. There is severe pain and discomfort in the gum area. These painful sensations might be signs of decay, inflammation, or infection. 
5. A case of swollen, red, and bleeding gums. 
6. A fall or sports energy can also lead to premature tooth loss. 
7. A permanent tooth can emerge from the gum line if a primary tooth is lost.

What To Give Your Child for Their First Tooth Loss? 

Well, that is the million-dollar question, especially for first-time parents. Losing their first teeth is a milestone, and it is the right time to teach your kids about the “tooth fairy.”

• Fun Ways to Celebrate a First Lost Tooth: Parents can educate their kids to place their first teeth under the pillow. Then, they can swap the tooth with a coin or some other present. Parents can also use their creativity and praise their kids by writing a bravery note from the tooth fairy. 

• Sweet & Healthy Treats for a Lost Tooth: Treat your kids to a special snack or meal, such as ice cream, brownies, or gummy bears. But if you are worried about their dental health, you can treat them to fruits or sugar-free snacks. 

Educating Kids About Tooth Loss Through Books

An underrated aspect often missed is educating their kids about the teeth loss process and the associated dental health. 

Parents can surprise their kids with children’s books about teeth loss, such as “Tiki and Ronde Barber’s Little Teeth” and “The Berenstain Bears Lose a Tooth.” The colourful aesthetics and gripping storyline will take your child on a ride. 

Lastly, arranging a fun activity can distract your child from all the pain. Take them out to a movie night or an amusement park so that they can forget all about the pain of first teeth loss. 

Rare Diseases That Can Cause Early Tooth Loss in Children

Here are some rare diseases that lead to an early tooth loss in kids: 

I- Ectodermal Dysplasia

A rare genetic disease that can hamper the development of skin, hair, and nails in children, this condition leads to children suffering from missing teeth, malformed teeth, and early tooth decay and loss. 

II- Celiac Disease 

An autoimmune disorder, celiac disease is the inability of kids to digest gluten. This can also cause dental issues in kids, such as tooth loss at an early age. 

III- Amelogenesis Imperfecta

Amelogenesis Imperfecta is the inability of a kid to develop enamel. This inability leads to the development of thin, brittle, and often absent enamel in kids, resulting in tooth loss and tooth decay. 

IV- Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1)

This rare condition causes tumours to develop on nerve tissue, preventing children from building teeth and bones. 

V- Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)

An autoimmune disease that causes joint inflammation affects tooth development, thus causing gum disease and early tooth loss. 

Healthy Practices for Good Dental Care 

Here are some practices that parents can teach their children for better dental health in the coming years: 

1. Teach your children to brush two times a day 
2. Teach your children the importance of floss and give them directions to do it properly
3. Teach your kid about healthy eating and the negative impacts of sugar-filled foods on the teeth. 
4. Schedule dental visits for your children at regular intervals. 

The Bottom Line 

The loss of teeth in children starts at age 5 and ends at age 12. The last teeth that a child loses are the Primary second molars. By 13 years, a child typically loses all their primary teeth. 

Parents need to schedule regular visits with dental caregivers at Palm Valley Pediatric Dentistry so that their children enjoy good dental care at an early age.