If you remember your childhood well, you might be able to recall early memories about losing your first few teeth—and if you have children of your own now, you’ll inevitably have to watch them go through this very same process, as it’s simply a part of growing up! That said, if your child has been telling you about a loose baby tooth, you might be wondering if there’s anything you can do to help them out. Here’s some advice from your pediatric dentist in Nashua.
Why It’s Okay to Pull Loose Baby Teeth
Simply put, baby teeth (sometimes referred to as primary teeth) are meant to fall out on their own to make room for permanent adult teeth. As the adult teeth begin emerging, they cause the roots of the baby teeth to be reabsorbed, so that by the time they’re loose, there’s virtually nothing holding them in place, allowing a clean and natural separation. This typically occurs around age 6 or 7 in most children and can continue for a few months or years, starting with the front teeth and incisors and usually ending with the molars in the back.
Even though baby teeth usually fall out without any help, it’s okay to help your child pull theirs out—you just don’t want to do this too early, as the process of losing baby teeth is also what guides the adult teeth into place. It’s also worth noting that adult teeth should not be pulled out on your own; this can threaten one’s overall oral health and cause all sorts of undesirable issues including gum disease and infection, further tooth loss, and even jawbone deterioration.
Tips for Safely Pulling Out Baby Teeth
Here are some tips to help your child remove their loose baby teeth:
- Encourage them to use their tongue to wiggle the tooth until it comes out.
- Discourage them from poking at the tooth with their hands, as they might accidentally apply too much force or introduce bacteria to their mouth.
- Don’t worry about blood; if the tooth is ready to come out, it shouldn’t bleed much. You can have your child bite down on gauze to halt any bleeding that might occur.
- Make it a game; it might seem like a television-only trope, but the “string and doorknob” method or other similar techniques can be both entertaining and effective.
Losing their baby teeth can be exciting for many children—especially when a prospective visit from the tooth fairy is on the table! That said, knowing how to safely help your little one pull a loose baby tooth will only ensure that there aren’t any unforeseen issues with their incoming adult teeth.
About the Practice
Here at Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we’re thrilled to provide the Nashua, NH community with an elite and unmatched level of dental care! Under one roof, we’re pleased to offer a comprehensive range of services that are certain to keep your little one’s oral health in the best shape possible. If you have any questions about the article or need to schedule a visit for your little one, you can contact us through our website or over the phone for further information or assistance: (603) 605-1094.