If you’ve examined your child’s baby tooth, you may be wondering why you do not see any roots. The reality is that since baby teeth roots dissolve when permanent teeth grow, the roots of baby teeth will never be visible. Let’s dive deeper into when children start to get baby teeth and when they lose them.
When Children Get and Loose Baby Teeth
At around six months old, your child will start to get their baby teeth. By the age of three, your child should have all of their top and bottom baby teeth. Between the ages of five and seven, your child will start losing their baby teeth. Keep in mind that this may come as early as age four for some children.
You should understand that although you aren’t able to see the roots of baby teeth, they play an important role in your child’s dental health. Roots are responsible for holding baby teeth in place and allow adult teeth to grow in their proper space. Once the adult teeth start growing out of the gums, they break down the roots of the baby teeth and prompt them to become loose and eventually fall out.
What to Do Once a Baby Tooth Falls Out
When your child’s baby tooth falls out, encourage them to gargle with some warm water and continue brushing their teeth with their regular toothbrush and toothpaste. Show them how to brush gently in the area where the tooth fell out in order to avoid irritation. By continuing to brush twice a day, floss at least once a day, and eat healthy, your child will prepare themselves for the growth of permanent teeth.
Should Loose Tooth Be Pulled?
You may be tempted to pull your child’s loose tooth. While it may seem fun, doing so can do more harm than good. Rather than yanking your child’s loose tooth, tell them to let it fall out on its own so that they can avoid injury and tearing their gum tissue.
Contact Triangle Pediatric Dentistry
If you have further questions regarding your child’s baby teeth or would like to make a dental appointment, call Triangle Pediatric Dentistry at (919) 435-7660. Our friendly team of dentists and dental assistants has the training and experience necessary to provide children of all ages with the quality dental care they deserve in Raleigh, Wake Forest, Rolesville or Louisburg.