Curious about when your baby’s first teeth will appear—or when they’ll start falling out? You’re not alone!
Watching your baby’s first teeth come in is an exciting part of early childhood. Knowing when to expect every tooth helps parents prepare for key dental milestones for kids—from teething to the tooth fairy! At Pediatric Dentistry of the Rockies, we’re here to guide Fort Collins families through every step of their child’s dental development. In this guide, we’ll cover baby teething stages, a full baby teeth chart, and key dental milestones to watch for.
When do Baby Teeth Come In & Fall Out?
- First tooth appears: Around 6 months
- Full set of baby teeth: By age 3
- First baby tooth falls out: Around age 6
- Full transition to adult teeth: By age 12
Stay on top of your child’s dental health with Pediatric Dentistry of the Rockies. Book an appointment today!
Baby Teeth Chart: A Timeline of Eruption & Loss
Understanding the baby tooth eruption timeline helps you track normal development and spot any concerns early.
Baby Tooth Eruption & Shedding Schedule
Here’s a helpful baby teeth chart outlining when to expect eruption and loss of each tooth:
| Tooth Type | Eruption Age | Shedding Age |
| Central Incisors (bottom) | 6–10 months | 6–7 years |
| Central Incisors (top) | 8–12 months | 6–7 years |
| Lateral Incisors | 9–13 months | 7–8 years |
| First Molars | 13–19 months | 9–11 years |
| Canines (Cuspids) | 16–22 months | 10–12 years |
| Second Molars | 23–33 months | 10–12 years |
Tip: Most kids have a full set of 20 primary teeth by age 3.
Q&A
Q: When do babies start teething?
A: Most babies start teething around 6 months old, but it can range from 3-12 months.
Baby Teething Stages & Symptoms
Teething can be tough—for both babies and parents. Recognizing the stages can help ease discomfort and reduce stress.
Signs & Symptoms of Each Teething Stage
- Stage 1 (0–6 months): Baby gums prepare for eruption, no teeth visible.
- Stage 2 (6–10 months): Lower central incisors emerge; drooling and irritability begin.
- Stage 3 (10–14 months): Canines and molars follow; chewing and sleep disturbances common.
- Stage 4 (16–24 months): Back molars erupt; discomfort may peak.
- Stage 5 (2–3 years): Full set of baby teeth complete.
Common Teething Symptoms:
- Drooling and rash around the mouth
- Irritability and fussiness
- Swollen, tender gums
- Biting or gnawing
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits
If symptoms are severe or include fever, always consult your pediatrician.
Q&A
Q: How long does teething last?
A: The entire teething process lasts until around age 3, but discomfort comes in short phases.
When Do Baby Teeth Fall Out?
One of the biggest dental milestones for kids is the loss of their first tooth.
Losing Baby Teeth: What Parents Should Know
- Typically begins: Around age 6
- Order of loss: Usually mirrors the order they came in
- Ends by: Age 12–13 when all primary teeth are replaced by permanent teeth
- Permanent teeth push baby teeth out naturally.
- Losing teeth too early (before age 5) could indicate dental issues.
If you’re asking “when do baby teeth fall out?”—remember every child is different. Delayed tooth loss is common, but if you’re concerned, schedule a checkup. Our friendly Fort Collins team is happy to help put your mind at ease.
Q&A
Q: Is it normal for a 5-year-old to lose teeth?
A: Yes! Some children start losing baby teeth as early as age 5, while others begin at age 7.
How to Care for Baby Teeth & Prevent Decay
Good oral habits should start early! Caring for baby teeth is critical to long-term dental health and helps prevent issues before they start.
Proper Oral Care for Baby Teeth
- Wipe gums with a soft cloth before teeth erupt
- Use a soft baby toothbrush and a rice-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste
- Avoid putting baby to bed with a bottle
- Teach kids to brush twice a day with supervision
- Schedule the first dentist visit for baby by age 1
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks
- Talk to your dentist about baby tooth decay prevention options like fluoride varnish
Q&A
Q: Do baby teeth need fillings?
A: Yes! Cavities in baby teeth can spread to permanent teeth and cause serious oral health issues.
Ready to Support Your Child’s Healthy Smile?
At Pediatric Dentistry of the Rockies, we love helping Fort Collins families with gentle, expert care from baby’s first tooth to their last lost one. If you have questions about the baby tooth eruption timeline, baby teething stages, or when baby teeth fall out, we’re here to help.
Book your child’s appointment today and give them the healthiest start possible!