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What does early tooth exfoliation refer to?

  1. Complete adulthood of teeth

  2. Shedding or falling off of teeth

  3. Whitening of teeth

  4. Improper alignment of teeth

The correct answer is: Shedding or falling off of teeth

Early tooth exfoliation refers specifically to the process in which primary (or "baby") teeth shed or fall out to make way for permanent teeth that will eventually emerge. This is a normal part of dental development, typically occurring in childhood when adult teeth begin to push through the gums. Exfoliation is a natural process that varies in timing between individuals, but it is important for the proper alignment and spacing of permanent teeth. Understanding this process is essential for dental professionals as it helps in monitoring dental development in children and ensuring that any anomalies can be addressed promptly. The other options do not relate to the shedding of teeth, focusing instead on aspects like adulthood, cosmetic changes, or malocclusion, which do not describe the specific process of early tooth exfoliation.