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You don't need to be a children's dentist to know that when a child has a loose tooth, it requires immediate attention. Your child will likely wiggle the tooth with their tongue and talk about the day when the Tooth Fairy comes to retrieve it from under their pillow. Here are some ways you can help care for your child’s tooth until it's ready to come out.

3 Tips for Handling Your Child’s Loose Tooth

1. Encourage Regular Brushing

Many kids are hesitant to brush a loose tooth. The area might be sensitive or even bleed when brushed. But keeping the tooth clean will help reduce inflammation in the gums, which prevents further sensitivity and bleeding. Just be careful and gentle when brushing the loose tooth; instruct the child to use light pressure. If they’re young, you may need to brush the tooth for them.

2. Let the Tooth Fall Out Naturally

You might be tempted to try to get the tooth to come out before it's ready. Some parents offer hard, crunchy, or chewy foods to dislodge the tooth, or they encourage the child to keep playing with the tooth until it loosens even more. While these methods are acceptable, the best course of action is to simply let it fall out on its own. Forcing it out can damage tissue and cause bleeding and pain.

3. Visit a Children's Dentist

children's dentistIf the loose tooth is causing too much stress and discomfort for the child, it's time to visit a children’s dentist. A dentist will check the condition of the tooth and decide if it's ready to come out. They will facilitate a speedy removal and address any pain or bleeding that result from the extraction.

 

When your child is struggling with a loose tooth, bring them to Pediatric Dentistry Kahala: Allen K. Hirai, DDS. This trusted children's dentist has more than 24 years of experience serving the Honolulu, HI, area. To schedule your child's dental visit, call the office today at (808) 737-0076, and visit them online for more information on their services.

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