Baby Teeth not Coming in or Falling Out

Baby Teeth Not Coming In or Falling Out As parents, we eagerly wait for our child’s first tooth and later, the excitement of their baby teeth falling out. But what if those teeth seem delayed—either not erupting on time or not falling out when expected? Most children get their first tooth around 6 months of age and continue teething until about age 3. However, some children may not get teeth until closer to their first birthday. A slight delay is usually normal and often runs in families. But if no teeth appear by 18 months, it’s a good idea to check with your dentist. On the other end, baby teeth usually start falling out around age 6 and continue until about age 12. Sometimes, though, a tooth doesn’t loosen when it should. This may happen if the permanent tooth is growing in the wrong direction, is missing entirely, or if the baby tooth has fused to the bone. These conditions can prevent normal tooth loss and require dental evaluation. While most delays are harmless, persistent issues may signal underlying problems. A pediatric dentist can take X-rays to check for permanent teeth, identify concerns, and recommend treatment if needed. Remember: every child develops at their own pace, but healthy timing of baby teeth is important for speech, chewing, and guiding adult teeth into place. If you’re concerned about teeth not coming in or falling out, schedule a dental visit to keep your child’s smile on track.