Should You Pull Baby Teeth for Growing Permanent Ones in Kids?

Children's Tooth Eruption

Hello Doctor: My daughter is currently 6 years old, and her lower front teeth (deciduous teeth) have not yet fallen out (they show no signs of loosening), while new teeth (permanent teeth) have already started to emerge behind them.
Some people suggest that we should quickly extract the baby teeth to facilitate growth, while others recommend allowing them to fall out naturally, stating that extraction could harm her body.
What should I do?

Xiao Juan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/03/08

Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry

Dear Xiaojuan, a person's life typically includes two sets of teeth: primary teeth and permanent teeth.
In the past, it was believed that retained primary teeth could hinder the growth of permanent teeth; however, it is now understood that healthy primary teeth can guide the proper eruption of permanent teeth.
Nonetheless, the appropriate management still depends on the child's oral eruption status.
Therefore, we hope you can take the time to visit our clinic, and we will be dedicated to serving you.
TH (06) 6351131-2208

Reply Date: 2005/03/08

More Info

When it comes to the question of whether to pull baby teeth to allow for the growth of permanent teeth in children, it's important to consider several factors. First and foremost, it's essential to understand the natural process of tooth eruption and the role that baby teeth (also known as primary teeth) play in a child's dental development.

Typically, children begin to lose their primary teeth around the age of six, although this can vary. The primary teeth serve as placeholders for the permanent teeth, guiding them into the correct position in the jaw. In most cases, it is best to allow baby teeth to fall out naturally. This process usually occurs when the roots of the primary teeth dissolve, causing them to loosen and eventually fall out, making way for the permanent teeth.

In your case, your daughter is six years old and has not yet lost her lower front teeth, even though the permanent teeth are beginning to emerge behind them. This situation is not uncommon. The presence of permanent teeth behind the primary teeth does not necessarily mean that the baby teeth need to be pulled. In fact, pulling baby teeth prematurely can lead to complications, such as misalignment of the permanent teeth, increased risk of infection, and unnecessary trauma to the child.

Dentists generally recommend waiting until the primary teeth show signs of loosening before considering extraction. If the baby teeth are still firmly in place and not causing any discomfort or issues, it is advisable to let them remain until they are ready to fall out on their own. This approach allows for a more natural transition and helps ensure that the permanent teeth have the best chance of erupting correctly.

However, there are certain situations where extraction may be warranted. For example, if the primary teeth are severely decayed, causing pain or infection, or if they are blocking the eruption of the permanent teeth, a dentist may recommend extraction. In such cases, it is crucial to consult with a pediatric dentist who can assess your child's specific situation and provide personalized advice.

In summary, the best course of action is usually to allow baby teeth to fall out naturally unless there are compelling reasons for extraction. Regular dental check-ups are essential during this time to monitor your child's dental development and address any concerns. A pediatric dentist can provide guidance on when and if intervention is necessary, ensuring that your child's oral health is maintained throughout the transition from primary to permanent teeth.

Additionally, it's important to maintain good oral hygiene practices during this period. Encourage your child to brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste (if they are able to spit it out) and to floss daily. This will help prevent cavities and ensure that both the primary and permanent teeth remain healthy.

In conclusion, while it may be tempting to pull baby teeth to make way for permanent ones, it is generally best to let nature take its course. Consult with a pediatric dentist for personalized advice and regular check-ups to ensure your child's dental health is on the right track.

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