What Does It Mean When a Tooth Falls Out?

Children lose primary teeth, also known as baby teeth, because the teeth loosen when their jaw begins to grow to its final size. Tooth loss in adults can be caused by many things and be cause for concern.

Tooth Loss in Children

• Children usually begin to lose their baby teeth between the ages of six to nine. According to Mayo Clinic, "The last baby teeth typically fall out by age 12 or 13." In most cases, girls lose their teeth earlier than boys. The two bottom front teeth and the two top front teeth are usually the first to go.

Tooth Loss in Adults

• While it is normal for children to lose baby teeth, it is not normal for anyone to lose permanent teeth. The most common causes of tooth loss in adults is dental caries disease, such as cavities or tooth decay, gum disease such as gingivitis, periodontitis and alveolar bone loss and injury, such as a fall or car accident, according to Doc Shop.

Warnings

• If a permanent tooth falls out, it's important to visit the dentist immediately, as this could be a sign of more serious health concerns. Diseases that cause tooth loss like gingivitis can usually be treated, but if left go it can lead to bone loss.