Are you curious about when your baby teeth will come out? It’s a fun and exciting milestone that every kid goes through! Losing your baby teeth means you’re growing up and getting ready for permanent teeth. But it’s normal to have questions about this process. In this blog post, we’ll answer five common questions kids have about losing their baby teeth. After all, providing kids with answers to their questions is a great way to get them excited about their oral health. So let’s get started and learn more about this fascinating stage of growing up!

5 FAQs for kids about their baby teeth. 

Hey kids! Have you ever noticed how curious you are about the world? You probably love to ask lots of questions and constantly explore new things. That’s because you have a natural sense of wonder and a strong desire to learn and discover new things. Asking questions is a great way to satisfy your curiosity and learn more about the world around you. So never stop asking questions and keep exploring!

And because we know you are curious, we’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite questions that kids like you have asked us. And even better, we have the answers.

1. Do teeth still fall out at 13?

Are you worried you’re getting too old for your baby teeth to fall out? Well, don’t worry! Everyone’s teeth fall out at different times, and some kids don’t lose all their baby teeth until they’re 13 years old, or even older. This might seem strange, but it’s perfectly normal. Sometimes, your permanent teeth just take a little longer to push out your baby teeth. If you’re concerned, you can always ask your dentist at your next check-up. But remember, losing your baby teeth is a sign that you’re growing up and getting ready for your permanent teeth, so enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to show off your new gap-toothed smile!

2. What are my canines?

Have you ever heard of your canines? They’re a type of tooth you have in your mouth, located next to your front teeth (lateral incisors). Canines are pointed and sharp, just like a dog’s teeth! That’s actually why they’re called, “canines,” but don’t worry; you’re not turning into a dog! Your canines are essential for helping you tear and shred your food when you eat. They usually come in between nine and 12 years old, after losing your front teeth (central and lateral incisors). 

You will also get some molars around this time, too, which are important for grinding up your food. So don’t forget to brush your teeth and take good care of your canines—they’ll help you keep your smile healthy and strong!

3. Why do girls lose their teeth sooner than boys?

Have you ever noticed that some of your friends might be losing their baby teeth before you? Well, that’s because every kid grows and develops at their own pace. On average, girls tend to lose their baby teeth a little earlier than boys, but that doesn’t mean boys are behind. Everyone’s body is different, and there’s no right or wrong way to develop. So don’t worry if your friends are losing their baby teeth before you—your teeth will come out when ready! And in the meantime, enjoy your smile and have fun showing off those pearly whites!

4. What does it feel like to have a tooth pulled out?

Are you nervous about getting a tooth pulled? Don’t worry—it’s not as scary as it sounds. When your kids’ dentist in Kearney, NE, pulls out a tooth, they use special tools and medicine to ensure you don’t feel any pain. Sometimes, they might need to pull out a baby tooth if it’s too damaged, or if your permanent tooth is coming in behind it.

But don’t worry—getting your tooth pulled won’t hurt. You might feel some pressure or pulling, but it’s not painful. Afterward, you might have some soreness or swelling, which will disappear in a few days. So don’t be afraid to ask your dentist any questions you may have, before getting a tooth pulled—they’re there to help you and make sure you’re comfortable.

5. Why do we even have baby teeth, if they just fall out?

It’s a great question to ask why do we even have baby teeth if they just fall out? The truth is, though, that baby teeth have a big role to play. They help us eat and talk properly and hold the space in our mouths for our permanent teeth to grow. Baby teeth also help us learn how to care for our teeth and gums, so we know what to do when our permanent teeth come in.

Even though baby teeth will eventually fall out, it’s still really important to care for them by brushing them twice a day with a soft toothbrush and water and not eating too many sugary foods or drinks. This helps prevent tooth decay, when our teeth get cavities and can cause a toothache. So, even though baby teeth will fall out, taking care of them now will help ensure our permanent teeth come in nice and strong.

Do your kids have more questions about baby teeth? Your Pediatric Dental Specialists team in Kearney has the answers!

We love encouraging childhood curiosity. And in our experience, talking to kids about teeth helps them to develop a healthy interest in their teeth and gums. So if your kids have questions about their primary teeth or their permanent teeth, feel free to send those questions our way. We know how to talk to kids on their level and will be sure to include them in the dental process. Request an appointment today.