Most children lose their first baby tooth, also called milk teeth or primary teeth, by the age of 6. However, some children can lose their first teeth much earlier. If your child has already lost a tooth, you may be worried that something is wrong. Here are some pointers on spotting problems with your child's teeth.
Age of First Eruption
Believe it or not, the age your child was when they got their first tooth is an important way to determine the age your child will lose their first baby tooth. The younger your child was when they got their first tooth, the younger they will be when they lose their first tooth. If your child didn't get a tooth until they were past age one, they will be older when they lose their first tooth.
Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
Children often lose teeth due to either tooth decay or gum disease. Bacteria cause both tooth decay and gum disease. The acids from bacteria can eat holes in teeth, which causes cavities. If you notice one of your child's teeth is discolored in one area, it may be a cavity. Your child might also complain of pain in the tooth as well.
Gum disease can also lead to tooth loss in children. You will notice signs of gum disease in your child's mouth because their gums will look red or discolored. They may also be swollen or bleed, especially during tooth brushing time.
Trauma
Trauma to the mouth area is another cause of children's missing teeth. If your child gets hit in the mouth, you may want to take them to see a dental practitioner. Whether the tooth loss is a baby tooth or a permanent tooth, a dentist can tell you if anything else needs to be done or if the mouth will heal on its own.