It can be an exciting time for parents when their child comes up and tells them that they have their first loose tooth. Simultaneously, it can be a very nerve-racking experience for first-time parents who are not sure what to do about it. There are several pieces of information and tips for parents that can ease the anxieties of parents, and we’ve included these below:
Timing
Many parents worry that there’s something irregular about their child because most of their classmates are losing teeth, but your child has not started yet. In reality though, there’s little rhyme or reason to why one child loses them earlier than another. A baby tooth will fall out when the adult tooth is ready to take its place.
Most children will lose their first tooth around age 6, and have most of their adult teeth by age 13, though these are not strict “rules” of tooth loss. If you’re worried about your child, you can call your dentist to calm your fears.
To Pull or Not to Pull, That is the Question
Most dental professionals suggest that parents don’t pull their children’s teeth for a multitude of reasons. For one, it can be painful and cause bleeding, which can leave gums susceptible to infection. Relatedly, most children’s teeth will fall out on their own naturally. So why put your child through the additional pain? Baby teeth also serve as guides for the adult teeth to grow in properly and their early removal can interfere with this process. If a tooth is still loose after two to three months, you should call your dentist.
Likewise, you should not encourage your children to wiggle their teeth with their fingers. As most parents know, children’s hands can be covered in all sorts of dirt and other grime that you don’t want close to open gums if a tooth unexpectedly falls out. Instead, if your child insists on wiggling their tooth, tell them to do it with their tongue.
If you have more questions about your children’s teeth or would like to schedule an appointment, contact the Lakeway Center for Cosmetic & Family Dentistry today.