Baby teeth: When do children start to lose them?

The lower-center teeth are often the first to appear in children, usually at about age 6 months. They're also the first to fall out, usually at about age 6 years. Baby teeth fall out on their own to make room for permanent, or adult, teeth.

Because your child's permanent teeth will have to last a lifetime, it's important to take good care of them. Teach your child to brush his or her own teeth after each meal. It's also a good time to start showing your child how to floss at bedtime. Schedule visits to your child's dentist about twice a year beginning no later than age 3 years and sooner if there are any concerning marks or color changes to the teeth.

As soon as the permanent back teeth have broken through, your child's dentist may cover them with a brush-on sealant. This can help protect them against tooth decay. Other steps you can take to decrease your child's risk of tooth decay include:

• Limit sugary treats, including juices with high sugar content, such as apple juice.
• Give your child a fluoride supplement if your water doesn't contain fluoride. Your child's doctor or dentist may prescribe a fluoride supplement. Your local water department can test your water for fluoride content.