Kids usually lose their first baby tooth around 5 or 6 years old. However they can start as early as 4 or as late as 8 years old. No matter when that first tooth gets loose, it is a monumental time!
Every child reacts differently when they start to lose their baby teeth. Some kids get excited and can’t wait for their visit from the Tooth Fairy. They constantly wiggle the tooth, hoping it will pop out soon.
Many kids have the opposite reaction. They avoid touching the loose tooth completely and just hope the problem will go away. They decline any help to pull it out because they are so afraid of the pain.
Parents and families have been coming up with creative ways to pull loose teeth out for years. Sometimes creativity can help a timid child get excited about losing a tooth. It can also be fun for the kids who already have that enthusiasm.
Everyone has heard the trick of tying a string in between the tooth and an open door, then shutting the door to pull the tooth out. This technique has yielded many entertaining stories, but also horror stories! While yanking a tooth out is not recommended (as you may be pulling it out prematurely), helping the tooth along by wiggling and rotating it is totally admissible.
Here are some simple ways to encourage that baby tooth to come out.
Chewing Gum
Some children may find this method uncomfortable with a loose tooth, but for those kids who love gum, this is a great way to help the process of losing a baby tooth. Obviously, we recommend sugar-free gum, which helps promote dental health. Gum that contains sugar can contribute to cavities and other dental issues.
Brushing and Flossing
Regular brushing and flossing is always recommended for healthy teeth, but it’s important to make sure your child is continuing these good habits when they have a loose tooth. In fact, brushing several times a day is beneficial. This can aid the tooth’s natural progression. If your child’s gums are more sensitive, you can use a toothbrush that has softer bristles.
Eating an Apple
Apples are naturally crunchy and can help a loose tooth move in healthy ways. Sometimes your child won’t even notice the tooth come out! Don’t panic if the tooth goes down with some of the food, though. Although your kid might be disappointed that they can’t leave anything under their pillow for the Tooth Fairy, there aren’t any serious health concerns with swallowing a tooth.
No matter how your child reacts when they get a loose tooth, it’s an exciting time for everyone involved. For any questions regarding your child’s dental health, contact us at Bear Creek Pediatric Dentistry.