What to do when Your Child has a Loose Tooth



The day has finally come: your child has their first loose tooth. While they wiggle that baby tooth and you despair about them growing up too fast, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when handling this memorable experience.



On average, children will start to lose their baby teeth at around age 6 or 7, but if your child is either an early bloomer or a late starter, you shouldn’t worry. Just make sure that you’re taking them to their pediatric dentist at least once a year. A professional will be able to determine whether or not there’s an underlying problem that’s preventing your child from naturally losing their baby teeth.



The teeth that will start coming loose are the ones that came in first. Typically, these are the front lower and upper teeth. If your child has a loose tooth further in the back before their front ones, it might be a good idea to call your dentist.

If the loose tooth is a direct result of an injury, you’ll want to schedule a visit to the dentist. This is to make sure that there’s no infection or damage to the adult tooth that’s still underneath the baby tooth.



It’s recommended that you let the baby tooth fall out on its own. Pulling it out before it’s ready to leave can lead to an infection. When the baby tooth finally comes out naturally, your child may bleed and experience some discomfort. Make sure that you tell your child this ahead of time, and that you make the situation a positive experience when it finally comes.



Immediately after the baby tooth comes out, have your child rinse their mouth with warm salt water. This will soothe any discomfort and help stop the bleeding. Keep a damp towel against the new gap in their teeth until the bleeding stops completely. If your child is still bleeding or in pain after about an hour, you should call your pediatric dentist.



If your child accidentally swallows their baby tooth, there’s no need to worry. Baby teeth are very small and will find their way back out without any issues.



You’ll start seeing the adult tooth start peeking in a few weeks after the baby tooth is gone. The new, permanent tooth will fully grow in within a few months. If you notice any discoloration or crookedness to this new tooth, make sure to call your dentist.



Of course, your family can’t really celebrate losing a baby tooth without the Tooth Fairy. There are many ways people carry on this tradition. Alongside the iconic hiding the tooth under the pillow and finding a gift in its place in the morning, parents have also added in fun things like a lost tooth certificate or a letter from the Tooth Fairy herself congratulating your child on losing their first tooth. Whichever way your family celebrates the Tooth Fairy, know that your child will remember this time in their life fondly because you’ve made it exciting for them!



If your child is having problems with their baby teeth or overall dental health, call on your local pediatric dentist. All Stars Pediatric is Cumming’s favorite children’s dentist, known for their friendly staff and exceptional oral care. Call today to schedule an appointment! 770.292.9441