Exchanging a tooth for some treats or money is a staple of many childhoods. And with Tooth Fairy Day here, it’s nice to understand why losing a tooth is an important part of growing up.
The reason children lose their first set of teeth is because their mouths are too small to accommodate the large teeth they will need as adults. Babies still need to eat, and they cannot wait for their mouths to grow enough to accommodate those big teeth. That is why we have two sets—one set of teeth helps us in infancy and early childhood, and the other helps us through adolescence and adulthood.
But remember, baby teeth are not practice teeth. It is important to teach your children how to properly care for their little chompers. This includes a routine that includes brushing twice a day, flossing when they are ready, and using a mouth rinse when they get older. Learning how to care for their teeth while they’re still young will help them avoid cavities and keep tooth pain and sensitivity away.
Why Children Need Baby Teeth
Baby teeth serve several important functions, from helping your child chew different kinds of food to helping them learn to talk. Besides the fact that the tooth fairy will have less polishing to do, here’s why it’s important to keep your kids’ baby teeth healthy.
- Baby teeth help strengthen the jaw.
When your child chews on food or a teether toy, it creates resistance in the jaw and surrounding muscles. This action signals the bone to become stronger. The teeth and jaw work together to support chewing, talking, and good oral health in the future.
- They determine the position of the permanent teeth.
When your child is old enough, the adult teeth lurking under their gums will push the milk teeth from their place. The adult teeth will then grow into the space. This helps the teeth grow into the right position in the mouth.
- They allow your child to eat properly.
Because our teeth help us rip apart and grind our food, we can eat a variety of different things to get the nutrients and minerals we need. Without teeth, the foods children can consume are very limited.
- Baby teeth help your child learn to talk.
Teeth are very important in forming sounds. This is why children’s speech often sounds different after they lose their front teeth. Without their primary teeth, it would be hard for them to communicate clearly with others.
When Will My Kid Lose Their Baby Teeth?
Since baby teeth act like placeholders for the adult teeth, they’re meant to fall out as the new ones start growing in. As the adult teeth start to emerge, they push against the roots of the little teeth, loosening them and eventually causing them to fall out.
Children will lose their baby teeth between the ages of six and thirteen. For some, it might seem like a never-ending parade of new teeth, while for others, it might be slower. However, if your child loses a tooth before age six, or they haven’t lost all their baby teeth by age thirteen, contact your dentist for a consultation. There may be some underlying issues that need to be addressed.
It is important to maintain oral health routines during this time, and it’s okay to contact your dentist if you have any concerns. NEVER force out a loose tooth. Pulling a tooth before it is ready, and without proper dental removal, can be extremely painful, lead to excessive bleeding, and even damage the gums.
Dental Care For All Stages of Life
From infants to seniors, Country Club Dental offers care for the entire family. From checkups to emergency appointments, our affordable dental services are unmatched. Dr. Paul Whitney’s experience and expertise make our office the very best in Flagstaff.
If you have any concerns about your child’s oral health or their baby teeth falling out, please make an appointment with us today.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (8/21/25). Photo by Jose Ibarra on Unsplash.
