Most people will start losing their baby teeth around age 6 or 7. This is a normal part of growing up. Children will usually have a full set of adult teeth by age 12 or 13. However, tooth loss can continue into adulthood for a variety of reasons.
When Do You Stop Losing Baby Teeth?
Children begin losing their baby teeth as the permanent adult teeth push through the gums. This process typically begins around age 6 or 7. The lower front teeth are usually the first baby teeth to fall out. The upper and lower incisors are lost between ages 6-7 years. The lower canines are lost between ages 9-12 years. The upper canines are lost between ages 10-12 years. Finally, the molars are lost between ages 9-13 years. So by age 12-13 years, all 20 baby teeth should have fallen out and been replaced by permanent teeth.
When Do Adults Start Losing Teeth?
Tooth loss is common as people age, but losing permanent teeth prematurely can signal poor dental health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), both children and adults are susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease that can cause tooth loss:
- 2 in 5 adults aged 20-64 have untreated tooth decay
- 1 in 4 adults aged 20-64 have untreated gum disease
- 1 in 5 high school students have untreated tooth decay
Gum disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss. The early stages of gum disease, called gingivitis, can begin during puberty. Gingivitis causes irritation, redness, and inflammation of the gums. When left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis or severe gum disease. Periodontitis damages the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. Eventually, the teeth loosen and fall out.
What Age Do You Normally Lose Your Teeth?
There is no specific age when adult tooth loss becomes inevitable. However, research shows that older adults are more likely to be missing teeth:
- Age 20-64 years – 4% have lost at least one permanent tooth
- Age 65-74 years – 26% have lost at least one permanent tooth
- Age 75 years and over – 40% have lost at least one permanent tooth
Poor dental hygiene and lack of professional care contribute to tooth loss in seniors. However, other factors like chronic disease, medications, cognitive impairment, and physical disability can make it difficult for seniors to properly care for their teeth.
What Causes Tooth Loss in Adults?
Many conditions can lead to missing teeth in adults, including:
- Tooth decay – Destruction of tooth enamel allows bacteria to penetrate and infect the soft inner tooth (pulp). The infection causes inflammation, pain, and tooth damage.
- Periodontal disease – Chronic gum inflammation destroys tissue and bone supporting the teeth. The teeth eventually loosen and require extraction.
- Injury – A knocked out, broken, or fractured tooth may need to be removed if unable to be repaired.
- Tooth impaction – Lack of space in the jaw causes a tooth to become stuck and impacted. Impacted teeth often require extraction.
- Cancer treatment – Radiation and chemotherapy drugs can affect tissues in the mouth. This may lead to infection and damage of teeth.
- Autoimmune disease – Conditions like Sjogren’s syndrome reduce saliva production needed for oral health and tooth protection.
How Many Teeth Do You Lose As You Age?
The number of teeth lost due to aging depends on an individual’s dental hygiene practices and access to professional care. On average, adults can expect to lose the following teeth over their lifetime:
| Age Range | Average Number of Teeth Lost |
|---|---|
| 35-44 years | 2.4 |
| 45-64 years | 4.2 |
| 65-74 years | 8.1 |
| 75 years and over | 12.0 |
As shown, tooth loss increases significantly with advanced age. Proper dental care throughout life is important to keep teeth healthy and avoid extractions.
Can You Stop Losing Teeth?
It is possible to maintain a healthy mouth and avoid losing permanent teeth prematurely. Recommended prevention tips include:
- Brush teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Clean between teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaners
- Eat a balanced diet low in sugary foods and drinks
- Avoid tobacco use
- See a dentist regularly for exams and cleanings
- Get dental sealants and fillings to prevent tooth decay
- Treat gum disease early to prevent tooth loss
- Replace missing teeth to prevent shifting
With proper home care and professional dental treatments, adults can keep their natural teeth for a lifetime.
Conclusion
Tooth loss is a normal part of growing up as baby teeth are replaced by permanent adult teeth. However, adults can also suffer tooth loss due to poor dental health. The risk increases significantly with age. The average adult loses 2-4 teeth by midlife and over 12 teeth in the senior years. But tooth loss is not inevitable. Practicing good oral hygiene, eating healthy, avoiding tobacco, regular dental visits, and prompt treatment can help people retain their natural teeth for life.