Baby teeth – what to know and how to care for them?

Most children start losing their baby teeth around the age of six, though the exact timing varies from child to child.
 
The process usually begins with the lower front teeth (central incisors), followed by the upper front teeth. The back molars are the last to fall out, typically between the ages of ten and twelve.
 
At the same time, permanent teeth start coming in to replace the baby teeth. The first permanent molar - often called the “six-year molar” - erupts around age six, behind the last baby tooth.
 
This molar is larger and sits at the very back of the dental arch. It’s also one of the most common teeth to develop cavities in children, since its deep grooves and fissures can be hard to clean thoroughly. That’s why we often recommend fissure sealing as a preventive measure to protect it from decay.
 
Parents should avoid trying to pull out baby teeth at home using string or other methods. Baby teeth should fall out on their own, and if they don’t, a dentist can safely and painlessly remove them.
 
By the age of 7 or 8, it’s a good idea to take your child to an orthodontist. This early visit helps evaluate whether orthodontic treatment may be needed and supports proper growth of the teeth and jaws.
 

Yes - even though baby teeth are temporary, they should be treated if they become decayed. In addition to preserving space for the permanent teeth, baby teeth are important for proper chewing and normal development of the child’s jaw.
 
Leaving cavities untreated can lead to the spread of decay and even infections that may affect nearby teeth, including the permanent ones developing beneath the gums. Baby teeth also help guide permanent teeth into their correct position, reducing the risk of future misalignment.
 
Regular dental visits allow early detection and treatment, and help children become comfortable in the dental setting - which lowers the chance that the child will be afraid of the dentist.
 
Caring for baby teeth also supports the development of lifelong oral hygiene habits. Healthy first teeth lay the foundation for a healthy smile and strong permanent teeth in adulthood.
 
Parents often ask when to schedule the first dental visit. Our advice: bring your child along to your own regular check-ups. This helps them become familiar with the dental environment. If the first visit happens only when pain is involved, the child is more likely to develop a fear of the dentist.