My Child's Tooth Is Loose. What Do I Do?

A loose tooth is common in children as their primary teeth begin making way for permanent teeth. While it can be an exciting milestone for your child, it's important to take the appropriate steps to ensure that the tooth falls out safely without causing unnecessary pain or damage.

Wiggle It

The first thing to do when you notice a loose tooth is to encourage your child to wiggle it gently with their tongue or fingers. This can help loosen the tooth further and make it easier to remove. It's important to emphasize that your child should not try to force the tooth out or pull it aggressively, as this can cause pain and damage to the surrounding teeth and gums.

Offer Pain Relief

If your child is experiencing pain or discomfort, you can offer over-the-counter pain relief medication like acetaminophen or ibuprofen or use a cold compress to help numb the area.

Pull the Tooth Out

Once the tooth is loose enough to remove, encourage your child to do so gently and without excessive force. If the tooth doesn't come out easily, it's best to leave it alone and wait for it to fall out naturally. Trying to pull a stubborn tooth can cause pain and damage to the surrounding teeth and gums.

Rinse

After the tooth falls out, please encourage your child to rinse their mouth with warm salt water to help keep the area clean and prevent infection. It's also important to remind your child to be careful when eating or brushing in the area, as the gums may be sensitive for a few days after losing a tooth.

The Final Word

If you have any concerns or questions about your child's loose tooth, it's always best to consult their dentist to ensure the process is proceeding safely without complications. Introducing your child to a good pediatric dentist early on in life is a good idea, as they are highly trained to handle children. They can explain the tooth-shedding process to the child calmly and gently so that the parent and child both know what to expect. Contact Piedmont Pediatric Dentistry and make an appointment with one of their expert pediatric