Understanding when adult teeth start appearing and how long they take to grow can help you prepare for when your kid starts losing their baby teeth. What is the timeline for kids’ teeth development? How long does it take for their adult teeth to grow? We break down the answers to the questions you have below.
When Do Kids Start Losing Baby Teeth?
The timeline for permanent tooth development differs for each child, but they all generally receive most of their adult teeth by the time they’re teenagers. Kids typically start losing their baby teeth at 5 or 6 years old. Some could lose their first tooth earlier, at age 4, while others may lose their first tooth later, at 7 or 8 years old.
How Long Does It Take for Permanent Teeth to Appear?
Once a child’s baby tooth is gone, the permanent tooth replacing it can take up to 6 months to appear and up to 12 months to fully grow in. In many cases, you will see the top of the adult tooth once the baby one falls out because it has resorbed the baby tooth’s roots.
For some children, it takes longer for their adult teeth to erupt through the gums and settle into position as they grow. Some kids’ mouths may also be smaller and more crowded, making it challenging for permanent teeth to grow straight. In these cases, the kids need palate expanders or braces to help give their adult teeth room.
By the time your child is 21, they should have all 32 of their permanent teeth, including the third molars, known as wisdom teeth. In many cases, however, children may not grow wisdom teeth or need them to be removed. Due to these cases, it’s also normal for your kid to have 28 permanent teeth.
Schedule a Consultation at Sprout Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
Caring for your child’s dental health is essential. At Sprout Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we make sure your child has a comfortable dental office to visit. Our certified pediatric dentists have experience working with children of all ages. We make sure your child feels relaxed and safe while receiving examinations, cleanings and procedures.
Are you ready to stay on top of your kid’s dental health? Learn how we can help you keep your child’s teeth in good condition by contacting us to schedule a consultation today!
Dr. Dana grew up in Portland and went to Temple University in Philadelphia, PA for dental school. She then moved to Anchorage, AK for her residency in Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Dana takes a holistic approach to pediatric dentistry & is able to use her own parenting experience to sympathize and understand each family’s unique dynamic.
