Losing Baby Teeth in Campbell CA

Losing baby teeth in Campbell CA is a natural part of childhood development, and it marks an exciting milestone for children and parents alike. Understanding when, why, and how baby teeth fall out can help ensure a smooth transition to a healthy adult smile. At Campbell Pediatric Dentistry, we provide expert guidance on children’s dental care to promote lifelong oral health.

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Losing Baby Teeth in Campbell CA – When Do Baby Teeth Fall Out?

Baby teeth, also known as primary teeth, typically start falling out around age six and continue through early adolescence. However, the exact timeline varies from child to child. The process generally follows the order in which teeth first appeared:

• Central incisors (front teeth): 6-7 years old
• Lateral incisors: 7-8 years old
• First molars: 9-11 years old
• Canines: 9-12 years old
• Second molars: 10-12 years old

By the time a child reaches 12 or 13, they usually have all their permanent teeth, except for wisdom teeth, which may emerge in the late teens or early twenties.

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Why Do Baby Teeth Fall Out?

Baby teeth serve an important role in a child’s development. They help with chewing, speaking, and holding space for permanent teeth. As the adult teeth grow and push against the roots of the baby teeth, the roots dissolve, allowing the primary teeth to loosen and eventually fall out.

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How to Help Your Child Through the Process

Encouraging Natural Tooth Loss

While losing baby teeth is a natural process, parents can help their child through it by:

• Encouraging gentle wiggling of loose teeth with clean hands or a soft tissue
• Avoiding forceful pulling, as this can cause pain or infection
• Providing soft foods if loose teeth make chewing uncomfortable

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Managing Discomfort and Bleeding

Mild discomfort and slight bleeding are normal when a tooth falls out. You can help by:

• Having your child rinse with warm salt water to cleanse the area
• Offering a cold compress if there is any minor swelling
• Providing soft foods if needed

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What If a Tooth Falls Out Too Early or Too Late?

While variations in tooth loss timing are normal, certain issues may require a visit to Campbell Pediatric Dentistry in Campbell CA:

• Premature tooth loss: If a baby tooth falls out too early due to injury or decay, it may cause shifting of surrounding teeth. A space maintainer might be needed to prevent crowding.
• Delayed tooth loss: If a baby tooth does not loosen and fall out by the expected time, a dentist may need to evaluate if intervention is necessary.

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The Importance of Good Oral Hygiene

Proper oral care is essential even before the first baby tooth falls out. Encourage your child to:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
• Visit the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings

Maintaining good oral hygiene habits during this transition period helps ensure strong and healthy permanent teeth.

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At Campbell Pediatric Dentistry, we provide expert pediatric dental care to ensure your child’s teeth develop properly. If you have concerns about your child’s tooth loss or oral health, schedule an appointment with our team in Campbell CA today!