Depending on the location, a loose tooth can be annoying or uncomfortable for a child. Normally it will come out on its own, but if the incoming tooth is growing in at a different angle, your pediatric dentist may recommend you help encourage the loose tooth to come out. Here are a few tips for how to do this. 

How to Get Loose Teeth Out

1. Wiggle It

Your child may feel empowered by taking charge of the situation. Ask them to spend a few minutes in the morning and each night wiggling the tooth with their tongue. Chances are they’ll wiggle on their own throughout the day. You can also do this for them by gently grasping and moving the tooth back and forth with a piece of gauze.

2. Visit the Pediatric Dentist

If the loose tooth is causing discomfort, and waiting for it to fall out naturally is not an option, visit the pediatric dentist. A dentist who specializes in working with kids will be able to put your child at ease and either gently pull the tooth or offer solutions for relief.  

3. Offer Lots of Crunchy Foods

Snacking on foods like raw carrots and nuts takes a lot of chewing effort. All that chewing will get the tooth moving and encourage it to fall out on its own. Have kids eat nutritious, low-sugar foods over sweets to avoid an increased risk of tooth decay.

4. Floss

Thread a piece of floss through the space on each side of the tooth and gently tug. If the tooth is very loose, it may come out right away. If not, continue this practice for a few nights until it comes out. You can also take a moment to floss between the rest of your child’s teeth, and teach them about excellent dental hygiene.

Bert E. Bathiany IV, DMD in Florence, KY, is the pediatric dentist you can trust to get your child started on a lifetime of good dental health. Dr. Bathiany is more than a dentist—he’s also a father of three and he understands how to help children get over their fear of the dentist, and learn how to love caring for their teeth. Make an appointment today with Florence’s pediatric dental care expert by calling (859) 525-2100 or sending a message online.