If your child's tooth is loose and they want assistance, gently use a tissue to squeeze the tooth.
Losing baby teeth is a natural part of childhood, and usually, those teeth will fall out on their own with no help needed. However, some children may feel anxious or uncomfortable with a wiggly tooth and ask for assistance. Here's how you can help a loose tooth along without causing pain or damage:
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Check for Readiness: Make sure the tooth is truly loose. Don't try to force a tooth that isn't ready to come out. Prematurely pulling a tooth can cause pain and bleeding.
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Gentle Wiggling: Encourage your child to gently wiggle the tooth themselves. This can help loosen it further.
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Soft Foods: Encourage softer foods to prevent discomfort while eating.
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The Tissue Technique: According to the American Dental Association (ADA), the safest way to assist is to:
- Take a clean tissue.
- Gently grip the loose tooth with the tissue.
- Apply gentle pressure and wiggle. The tooth should come out easily.
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Avoid Force: Never force the tooth. If it doesn't come out with gentle pressure, it's not ready.
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After the Tooth Comes Out:
- Rinse your child's mouth with warm water.
- Apply gentle pressure to the empty socket with a clean gauze pad or cotton ball until the bleeding stops.
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When to Consult a Dentist: While most loose teeth don't require a dentist's intervention, consult a dentist if:
- The tooth is extremely painful.
- There is excessive bleeding.
- The tooth is loose due to an injury.
- You have concerns about the way the new tooth is erupting.
