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While your child may be excited after losing their first tooth, parents should encourage high-quality dental care to ensure the replacements grow in properly. A lost tooth signals that permanent teeth are not far behind, and development can be hindered by poor dental hygiene. That’s why the dentists at Chinook Family Dentistry of Anchorage, AK, recommend the following tips to parents whose kids are in the process of losing their primary teeth.

What Is the Proper Dental Care After My Child Loses a Tooth?

Use a Topical Anesthetic for Pain

While pain will most likely be minimal, discomfort and swelling can occur at the site of the lost tooth. A topical anesthetic is ideal in this case, as it can be applied directly to the socket to ease pain. If pain lasts for a long time or significant swelling occurs, schedule an appointment with your dentist.

Keep the Socket Clean

dental careAfter losing a tooth, your child should keep up their dental hygiene and make sure the area is free of food debris and bacteria. If the site of the lost tooth is tender, have your child rinse the area with warm salt water, which will flush away debris. Once discomfort subsides, the socket can be gently brushed along with the rest of the teeth.

Emphasize the Importance of Good Dental Care

As permanent teeth come in, it’s essential that your child properly cares for their teeth. This entails brushing twice and flossing at least once a day. Daily rinsing with fluoride mouthwash is also recommended, as this can remove bacteria missed when brushing.

Losing a tooth is an exciting sign of growing up, but it doesn’t mean that good oral hygiene habits should be forgotten. Talk to your child’s dentist about specific considerations for your kid as they lose their primary teeth and gain permanent ones. In Anchorage, parents trust in the dental care provided by the team at Chinook Family Dentistry. Schedule routine teeth cleaning today by calling (907) 272-8422. You can also visit the website for a complete list of services.

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