When do baby teeth fall out?
Baby teeth start falling out around age 6, and the last ones go at about 12. Under each one, a new tooth is already hiding in the bone. As it grows, the baby tooth’s root slowly disappears, the tooth gets wobbly and falls out. Then the new tooth comes in.

Press "Watch the change" or tap the steps to see the new tooth move up.
Questions people ask
At what age does the first baby tooth fall out?
For most children, between ages 6 and 7. It is almost always one of the lower front teeth. Some start a little earlier or later, and that is usually normal. If in doubt, ask a dentist.
In what order do baby teeth fall out?
Roughly in the order they came in. First the middle front teeth (ages 6 to 7), then the side front teeth (7 to 8). Between 9 and 12 the baby molars and canines fall out. In the "Whole mouth" view above, you can move the age and watch the change.
What is the "six-year molar"?
It is the first permanent molar. It comes in at the very back of the mouth, behind the baby teeth, without any falling out. Many people think it is a baby tooth and take less care of it, but it is meant to last a lifetime. Brush well back there.
Why does a baby tooth fall out without a root?
It did have a root. As the new tooth moves up, the body slowly breaks that root down, without pain. When the tooth falls out, almost only the top part is left. That is why it normally comes out "without a root".
The new tooth came in behind the baby tooth. What now?
This is common, especially with the lower front teeth. Often the baby tooth loosens and falls out on its own, and the tongue helps push the new one into place. If the baby tooth stays firm after a few weeks, show it to a dentist.
Should you pull out a wobbly tooth?
It is best to let the child wiggle it with their tongue or a clean finger until it comes out on its own. Pulling it too early can hurt and bleed more. If it stays wobbly for a long time and gets in the way of eating, a dentist can help.
Why is the new tooth more yellow and bumpy on the edge?
Baby teeth are very white. The permanent tooth has a thicker, slightly yellow layer inside, so it looks more yellow next to them. The little bumps on the edge of new front teeth are normal and wear down over time.
How many teeth fall out in total?
All 20 baby teeth fall out, and 20 permanent teeth take their place. On top of that, 12 molars come in at the back without replacing any: 4 around age 6, 4 around age 12 and the 4 wisdom teeth later on (which do not always come in). That is how an adult gets to 32 teeth.
Does a baby tooth with a cavity need treatment?
Yes. Even though it will fall out one day, the baby tooth helps with chewing and speaking and holds the space for the permanent tooth. A cavity can hurt, get infected and affect the tooth forming underneath. See a dentist.
Sources
This text was written using these references:
- Tooth eruption (fact sheet) · Australian Dental Association
- Eruption Charts · American Dental Association (MouthHealthy)
This content has not been medically reviewed.






