What term describes the natural shedding of deciduous teeth?

The term that describes the natural shedding of deciduous teeth is "exfoliation." This process occurs as a child’s jaw grows and the underlying permanent teeth develop, which gradually resorb the roots of the primary teeth. As this resorption happens, the deciduous teeth become loose and eventually fall out, making way for the permanent teeth to erupt. This is a normal part of dental development in children and is essential for the proper alignment and spacing of adult teeth.

In contrast, extraction refers to the surgical removal of teeth that are deemed problematic or not erupting properly, which is not a natural process. Remineralisation involves the repair of damaged enamel through the deposition of minerals, and resorption is a physiological process where the body breaks down and absorbs tissue, typically referring to bone rather than teeth. Therefore, exfoliation is the specific term that accurately captures the natural shedding of primary teeth.