| Quick Answer: Most children start losing baby teeth around age 6, beginning with the lower front teeth, and finish around age 12 with the second molars. Variation is normal — anywhere from age 4 to 8 for the first tooth lost is typically fine. The 20 baby teeth come out in roughly the same order they came in. |
If your child just had a wobbly tooth and you’re trying to figure out what to expect, you’re in good company. At Cabezon Pediatric Dentistry in Rio Rancho, this is one of the most common parent questions we get. The short answer: most kids start losing baby teeth around age 6 and finish around age 12.
Here’s the full timeline, what’s normal, and when to call us.
When Do Children Start Losing Their Teeth?
Most children lose their first baby tooth around age 6 — typically a lower central incisor (one of the front bottom teeth). The teeth that came in first are generally the first to fall out. From there, tooth loss follows a fairly predictable order over the next 6 years.
There’s natural variation. Some children start as early as 4, others not until 7 or 8. As long as your child is making progress and the permanent tooth is visible underneath when a baby tooth falls out, the timing is rarely cause for concern.
The Tooth Loss Timeline
| Tooth | Position | Typical Loss Age |
|---|---|---|
| Central incisors (lower) | Bottom front teeth | 6–7 years |
| Central incisors (upper) | Top front teeth | 6–7 years |
| Lateral incisors | Next to the front teeth | 7–8 years |
| First molars (baby) | Back baby molars | 9–11 years |
| Canines | Pointed teeth | 9–12 years |
| Second molars | Furthest-back baby teeth | 10–12 years |
How Many Baby Teeth Does Your Child Have?
Twenty in total. By age 3, most children have a complete set of 20 baby teeth — 10 on top, 10 on bottom. Each one is designed to fall out and be replaced by a permanent adult tooth. Adults eventually have 32 permanent teeth (including 4 wisdom teeth), with the extra 12 erupting into new space as the jaw grows.
What’s Normal — and What’s Not
Normal:
- First tooth lost between ages 4 and 8
- Some asymmetry — one side ahead of the other
- A tooth wiggling for several weeks before it falls out
- Mild gum tenderness when a permanent tooth is erupting
Worth a dental check:
- Tooth loss before age 4 (especially without a clear cause)
- No teeth lost by age 8
- Permanent tooth coming in behind a still-present baby tooth (“shark teeth”)
- Significant pain or swelling around a loose tooth
- A tooth lost from trauma rather than natural process
What If a Permanent Tooth Comes In Behind a Baby Tooth?
This is so common that pediatric dentists call them “shark teeth.” The permanent tooth erupts behind the baby tooth that hasn’t yet fallen out, creating a temporary double row. In most cases, the baby tooth falls out on its own within a few weeks and the permanent tooth shifts forward into the correct position.
If the baby tooth doesn’t loosen and fall out within 1–2 months, schedule a dental visit so we can evaluate.
Visit Cabezon Pediatric Dentistry in Rio Rancho
Our team in Rio Rancho serves families across Sandoval County — Rio Rancho, Bernalillo, Corrales, and west Albuquerque. We see kids from 9 months through age 18 (special needs to 26). Contact our office if you have questions about your child’s tooth loss timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age do kids start losing their teeth?
Most children lose their first baby tooth around age 6, starting with the lower front teeth (central incisors). Some kids start as early as 4, others not until 7 or 8 — both are normal.
What’s the order kids lose teeth in?
Generally: lower central incisors first (~age 6), then upper central incisors, then lateral incisors, canines and first molars (~age 9–11), and finally second molars (~age 10–12). The order roughly mirrors the order they came in.
How long does losing all baby teeth take?
About 6 years total. Most kids start around age 6 and finish losing their last baby tooth between ages 12 and 13.
Should I be worried if my child loses teeth early or late?
Usually no. Early loss before age 4 or late loss after age 8 is worth a dental evaluation, but small variations within those windows are typical. Permanent tooth visibility under the gum is reassuring.
Should I pull my child’s loose tooth?
Usually not. Let it fall out naturally. Pulling early can damage the gum or leave a piece of root behind. If a tooth has been loose for weeks and is causing real discomfort, schedule a visit.
What if my child loses a tooth too early from injury?
Early loss from trauma can cause permanent teeth to drift into the gap. A space maintainer — a small custom appliance — may be needed to hold the space until the adult tooth erupts.
| Questions about your child’s tooth-loss timeline? We truly care about your child’s health and happiness. Reach out to get your child’s appointment scheduled. We can’t wait to see you. Cabezon Pediatric Dentistry │ 2421 Cabezon Blvd SE, Suite 101, Rio Rancho, NM 87124 │ (505) 884-5437 │ Contact Us → |