Reviewed by Dr. Amir Davoody, board-certified orthodontist (ABO Diplomate).
When parents bring young children in for an initial evaluation, the child is often missing several primary teeth, and parents worry that treatment cannot start until all the permanent teeth have come in. It is common to wonder whether your child is losing teeth at the right time, too slowly, or too quickly. These concerns are normal, and they are exactly why an early orthodontic visit around age seven is so helpful. Dr. Amir Davoody can answer these questions and start any needed treatment early enough to prevent bigger issues.
When should your child start to lose teeth?
Most children lose their first baby tooth, usually a bottom front tooth, around age 6. The rest of the primary teeth follow, with the last typically gone around age 12. The first permanent molars also arrive around age 6, and the remaining permanent teeth come in gradually over the next several years; wisdom teeth usually appear around age 18. There is natural variation in this process, so if you have concerns about your child’s teeth, talk with your dentist or orthodontist.
Early treatment orthodontics
Early treatment corrects dental and skeletal irregularities at a young age. Bones and teeth are more malleable during childhood, which makes this an ideal window to guide development, improve the smile’s appearance, and align teeth properly. In some cases, early treatment helps prevent future problems such as gum disease and decay. It is not right for every patient, but it offers real benefits for those who are candidates, which is why an evaluation around age seven is recommended.
The science of tooth movement
Teeth move slowly, which is the healthiest way to perfect a bite. Movement is a balance between osteoclasts breaking down bone in the direction a tooth is moving and osteoblasts filling in bone behind it. The ideal rate is about one millimeter a month. Rushing this process can damage teeth, so patience matters. If your child is missing teeth when treatment begins, or loses teeth during treatment, your orthodontist is an expert at timing movement to account for the new spaces tooth loss creates.
Frequently asked questions
Can treatment start before all baby teeth are gone? Often, yes. Early treatment is timed to your child’s growth, not to a fully adult set of teeth.
Is it bad if my child loses teeth early or late? Some variation is normal. An evaluation can confirm whether the timing is a concern.
Why does tooth movement take so long? Healthy movement is about one millimeter a month so bone can rebuild and hold teeth in place.
Schedule an early evaluation
If your child is around age seven, it is a good time to check in. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Amir Davoody to see whether early treatment may help.
Davoody & Hablinski Orthodontics
5311 Kirby Dr Ste 209, Houston, TX 77005
Phone: (713) 521-2727