Children will lose their first set of teeth before their stronger adult teeth can come in. Losing a tooth can be a difficult process to navigate as a child, especially for the first time. Parents may not know how to handle a child’s loose tooth or know how to proceed when their child loses their first tooth, so this blog can help provide insight on how to navigate this change. Loosing baby teeth is normal, but following proper oral hygiene and caring for the open socket until the adult tooth comes in will help your child have better future oral health. Here is what to do when your child loses their first tooth.
When Will Children Lose Their First Tooth?
All children are different, but baby teeth typically begin to loosen or fall out around the age of 7. Smaller teeth, like incisor or canine teeth, may fall out earlier than molars, but between the ages of 7 and 12, children will lose their baby teeth. If your child hasn’t lost their first tooth yet, it may not be a sign for concern, but you can speak with your dentist about whether their adult teeth are ready to poke through the gums or if you need to encourage the loosening of baby teeth.
Reassure Or Comfort Your Child
When a child loses their first tooth, they may feel some fear and discomfort about this new situation. Parents can help reassure or comfort the child and help coach them through the process of losing teeth and caring for their oral health. If a tooth is loose and a child is scared to wiggle it out, parents may be able to help coax the tooth out to make room for the new adult tooth.
Finding a book or TV episode geared toward kids can help teach them about baby teeth and caring for their teeth. These can help discuss what comes with losing a tooth and feel comfortable with the process. Use these as a resource or guide to help you discuss tooth loss with your child.
Clean The Socket
After a baby tooth has fallen out, it is important to keep the open socket clean and free of bacteria. After losing a tooth, there may be some blood from breaking through the gum. Rinse this out with water or by using a cotton ball. You can also use a saltwater rinse to clean the socket and remove bacteria that could cause infection. Until the new tooth comes in, make sure your child is brushing and flossing with care around that area.
Provide Pain Relief
After losing a tooth, there may be some pain or discomfort for the child. The next step is to provide a form of pain relief and maybe a distraction. There are over-the-counter tooth ointments that can be applied to the socket with a clean finger to reduce swelling and pain. You can also use a cool compress, like an ice pack or a wet cloth, on the outside of the mouth to reduce discomfort. Children’s Tylenol or ibuprofen can also help relieve symptoms in children who may have lost multiple teeth at one time. If your child is distraught or experiencing extreme pain, contact your dentist for recommendations.
Contact Your Dentist With Questions
Since every child and tooth is unique, there may be other concerns or problems that are not discussed in this blog. A pediatric or general dentist will be able to answer specific questions about your child’s teeth, gums, and potential pain they may be experiencing. Staying in communication with your dentist can also allow you to go into the office for an exam or tooth extraction if necessary.
Regular cleanings and exams will also help give you a clearer picture of where your child’s development and tooth progression are headed. Your child’s oral health is just as important as your own, so having them attend dental appointments will help the dentist spot problems early and keep the adult teeth on track.
Dental Services From Jenson Dental
Taking care of your teeth is important throughout all stages of your life, which includes going to frequent dental appointments. Jenson Dental offers general dentistry services but also specializes in dentures, implants, veneers, teeth whitening, and cosmetic procedures. We are the top-rated family dentist in Brigham City, UT, and we take great pride in working with the community, helping them to love their smiles again. If you are ready to take better care of your teeth or are struggling with confidence in your smile, reach out to our dental office today!
