Dental Education: "All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth"

December 11, 2018

Why does it seem like your children’s teeth fall out all at once?

When should my child expect to lose their two front teeth?

Tooth losing patterns may vary from child to child, but typically follow the same pattern and timing.

With infants, you might see a little smidge of a tooth start showing around the six month mark. But do not worry if your child is older and has not had anything visible begin to poke through their gums. In most cases, they may be on their way!

Some children have been known to be toothless all the way up until their two year birthday!

If you are worried, most children should go to see the dentist at the age of six months, and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends they see a dentist prior to their first birthday. Take this opportunity to speak to a dental professional about any questions or concerns you may have for your child. They can help with questions about pacifier use, sippy cups, thumb sucking or other habits and nutritional needs for your child.

So, when does the old holiday song, “All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth” come into play?

Well, most likely your child will start singing this tune around the age of 6 or 7. This is the most typical age when the two front teeth have wiggled their way out of your child’s mouth and under their pillows for the Tooth Fairy!

Even if they lost their two front teeth a while ago, rest assured, they may be singing this tune even around Christmas.

And unfortunately, you may not be able to give them what they really want for Christmas since their two front teeth will decide when they feel like appearing.

Additionally, you may notice that children lose all of their back teeth around the same time.

Between the ages of nine and twelve, your child will lose about twelve teeth. Children will have twenty primary teeth in their childhood, and thirty-two teeth as adults. Their first adult tooth should appear at the young age of 6 years old.

This is why having a parent helping them brush their teeth is so crucial. Most kids don’t develop the needed brushing dexterity and ability until age 8 or 9, which is necessary for removing plaque and keeping them healthy, even if they insist they don’t need help!

Whether your child is just starting to teeth or is singing “All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth,” remember that your role in their dental health can be crucial.

Happy Holidays!