Losing a tooth is a rite of passage for kids—and an emotional rollercoaster for parents. It marks the end of one chapter (tiny baby teeth!) and the beginning of another (a big-kid smile coming through). Whether it’s your first child or your fifth, that first loose tooth is always a memorable moment. So, when exactly do kids start losing their teeth, and what should you expect?
When Does the Tooth Fairy Usually Make Her Debut?
Most children start losing their baby teeth around age 5 to 7. The first to go are usually the bottom front teeth (central incisors), followed by the top front ones. This process continues until about age 12 or 13, when most kids will have their full set of permanent teeth—minus wisdom teeth, of course.
But remember: every child is different. Some kids may get their first loose tooth at 4, while others might not until they’re closer to 8. Both are totally normal!
Why Do Baby Teeth Fall Out?
Baby teeth (also called primary teeth) act as placeholders for the adult teeth that are growing underneath. As permanent teeth start to push their way up, they dissolve the roots of the baby teeth, causing them to become loose and eventually fall out. It’s a natural part of growing up, though it can feel a little strange (and even scary) for a child the first time it happens.
How to Handle a Wiggly Tooth
Got a wiggle warrior on your hands? Here are a few tips to keep the process smooth and safe:
Let nature do the work. Encourage your child to gently wiggle the tooth if it’s really loose, but don’t yank it before it’s ready. A little patience goes a long way.
Keep up oral hygiene. Even loose teeth need brushing! Make sure your child continues to brush gently and floss daily.
Be ready for some blood. When the tooth finally comes out, a little bleeding is normal. Rinse with warm water and apply gentle pressure if needed.
Making It Magical
For many families, the Tooth Fairy plays a big part in celebrating this milestone. Whether she leaves a coin, a tiny gift, or a glittery note, it’s a sweet way to make the experience feel exciting and positive. You can even get creative with:
Tooth Fairy pillows or boxes
Special charts to track lost teeth
A “Tooth Fairy Certificate” (yes, it’s a thing!)
When to Call the Dentist
Most tooth-loss moments are no big deal, but occasionally you may want to check in with your dentist:
If a tooth is knocked out by accident before it’s loose
If adult teeth are coming in behind baby teeth that haven’t fallen out yet
If your child hasn’t lost any teeth by age 8
A Big Smile Ahead
Watching your child lose their baby teeth can stir up all kinds of feelings—nostalgia, excitement, even a little disbelief at how fast they’re growing. But this milestone is a beautiful sign of healthy development. So snap those gappy-grinned photos, leave the Tooth Fairy a heads-up, and get ready for a new chapter in your kiddo’s growing-up journey.
And hey—don’t forget to save a few of those tiny teeth if you’re the sentimental type. One day, they’ll be just another part of the story you tell about how fast your baby became a big kid.
