Every child develops at their own pace, but as a parent, it's perfectly normal to be concerned when your child's baby teeth aren't falling out on time. If you've noticed a stubborn baby tooth sticking around longer than expected, you may be wondering if it's normal or a sign of something more serious that calls for a visit to a Tremont family dentistry in IL.
Various factors can keep a child’s baby teeth from falling—and understanding these is key to understanding when to wait and when to act, seeking gentle, personalized care that prioritizes your child's comfort and long-term oral health.
Why Baby Teeth Matter More Than You Think
While baby teeth are often thought to be only temporary, they play an important role in your child's development. These early teeth help guide adult teeth into their proper positions, aid in speech development, and maintain facial structure.
Most children begin losing their baby teeth around the age of six, and the process usually continues until they are around twelve or thirteen years old. However, in some cases, a baby tooth fails to fall out on schedule, which can indicate a more serious underlying issue.
What Causes Baby Teeth to Stay in Too Long?
There are several reasons why a baby tooth might hang on longer than expected, including:
- Permanent teeth erupting in the wrong direction (often called “shark teeth” when adult teeth grow in behind baby teeth)
- Crowding or lack of space for the adult tooth to emerge
- Injury or trauma that disrupted normal root resorption
- Missing or impacted permanent teeth below the gums
- Medical conditions or genetic factors affecting tooth development
It’s not always easy to spot these issues on your own—that’s where a dental evaluation can offer clarity and peace of mind.
Signs It’s Time to See a Dentist
Here are a few red flags that may indicate a need for professional dental guidance:
- A baby tooth remains firmly in place past age 13
- An adult tooth is erupting behind or beside a baby tooth (creating a double row of teeth)
- The baby tooth is loose but won’t fall out for several months
- Your child experiences pain, swelling, or difficulty chewing
- Your child has a history of late dental development or genetic conditions
Don’t wait until it becomes a bigger problem. Early detection can prevent overcrowding, misalignment, or the need for more invasive treatments later on.
Many parents tell us they wish they’d come in sooner—because once they do, their anxiety disappears. Our warm, kid-friendly office and experienced team are here to make sure your child’s smile stays healthy and happy from the start.
When In Doubt, Visit the Tremont Family Dentistry in IL
Every child's dental journey is unique, but if you're concerned about a lingering baby tooth, follow your instincts. A quick dental checkup can provide peace of mind, identify potential problems early, and prepare your child for a lifetime of confident smiles.
Schedule an appointment for your child at Smalltown Dental today. We will provide compassionate care and expert pediatric insight to families in Tremont—because it is always better to ask than to guess about your child's health.
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