If you haven’t thought much about baby teeth since your own kids were small, you’re not alone. But the moment a little one comes running over with their first wiggly tooth, suddenly it’s all happening again — and you may be wondering how this whole thing works.
Here’s a quick, helpful guide to what every parent and grandparent should know about baby teeth, from how many we lose to how long it takes, plus a fun way to celebrate each tiny milestone.
The Basics: How Many Baby Teeth Do Kids Lose?
Most children have 20 baby teeth — 10 on the top and 10 on the bottom.
Those little teeth begin to fall out around age 5 or 6, although some kids start earlier and some later. By age 12 or 13, the last baby tooth has usually made its exit, often with much fanfare (and a bit of gentle bribery).
In What Order Do Baby Teeth Fall Out?
You can think of it like a pattern:
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The front teeth go first — those central incisors. Bottom then top.
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Then the teeth beside them (lateral incisors).
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Followed by molars and canines, as the jaw grows to make room.
The process happens in phases over the years, not all at once — which is why one child may have a Jack-o’-lantern smile while their sibling still has a full set of baby teeth.
Should You Wiggle It Out?
Loose teeth can stay in for weeks, even months. It’s okay to encourage gentle wiggling, but no need to rush it. The root is naturally dissolving, and once it’s ready, the tooth will come out with barely any effort.
Let the child take the lead. Some kids love the drama. Others prefer a more subtle sendoff.
And Then What?
This is where things get special. The loss of a baby tooth is a little goodbye to babyhood — and a hello to growing up.
It’s more than just a coin or a surprise under the pillow. It’s a moment to celebrate, to mark their growing independence, to make a little magic together.
A Fun Way to Celebrate Every Lost Tooth
Whether you’re a parent navigating the first wiggly adventure or a grandparent cheering from the sidelines, a simple ritual helps everyone feel part of the moment.
Our favorite idea? A Tooth Pillow with a special pocket to keep the tooth safe and make the Tooth Fairy’s visit a little smoother. Paired with a Tooth Tracker printable, you can record every tooth lost, every grin gained, and every tiny milestone along the way.
Image suggestion: Child holding a pillow, showing the tracker with gaps drawn in.
It’s a small way to make a big memory.
Remember: It’s a Journey, Not a Race
Some kids lose their first tooth at 4, others at 7. Some have double-rowed shark smiles for a while. All of it is normal. All of it is worth remembering.
So the next time you hear, “It’s wiggly!”, take a moment. That’s not just a loose tooth — it’s the start of something sweet.