Is your child eager to lose their teeth? We know it can be both an exciting and scary time for kids - and to be honest, for parents too! Your kids are moving out of the baby-stage and into "Big Kid" status, and that comes with mixed emotions. While your mind may be thinking about the tooth fairy and logistics, here are a few things every parent needs to know about tooth loss.
When Should My Child Lose a Tooth?
Teeth usually loosen because the permanent (adult) teeth are pushing on them and are ready to come in and baby teeth can begin to wiggle as early as age 4. Most kids will start losing teeth around 5 and finish by age 15 and more often than not, girls lose them before boys. Another fun fact is that most children begin to lose teeth in the same order they got them ~ the front teeth (top or bottom), followed by the canines and then back to the molars.
Suffice to say, it is possible for baby teeth to be lost early - mostly that's due to injuries or dental issues such as gum disease or cavities. In a “premature loss”, it is critical to see a dentist to prevent more significant future issues. Baby teeth matter!
If your child hasn’t lost any teeth by age 8, or if adult teeth erupt before the baby teeth have fallen out, talk to your dentist to make sure there are no problems.
Is it OK to Pull the Tooth?
It's best to let baby teeth fall out naturally to prevent trauma to the gums around the tooth - especially because those gums are likely already very sore. Plus, most kids like to play with wiggly teeth - moving it with their tongue or fingers. This is totally natural and encouraged! Just remember, it's important to make sure you prepare your child for what will happen when that tooth eventually comes out - especially for those who go to school. Try to hit on these top-line ideas:
- Losing teeth is normal and the wiggly tooth will fall out.
- You should feel it before you swallow it, but if you do - it's no big deal!
- Tell your teacher or go see the school nurse if it comes out.
- Sometimes, it bleeds - but pressure on the spot where it came out with a tissue will make that stop.
- Ask your teacher or the nurse for a bag or envelope so you can keep the tooth safe until you get home.
If you are struggling, you can also consult the American Dental Association’s “Ask the Tooth Fairy” for some help with this conversation.
It's Gone ~ What Next?
A toothless grin is seriously one of the cutest things - so, enjoy it! Adult teeth take a little while to come in, so you may see those gaps for a bit. Just know that teething as a big kid isn’t usually as painful as it was for your baby. Typically, the only pain your child may feel when the permanent teeth come in is with the eruption of molars, and is usually that can be resolved with over-the-counter pain medicines.
Also, you'll start to notice that the adult teeth are larger, slightly darker and more ridged than baby teeth. Please make sure that dental hygiene is a top priority - even more so than before - because this is the last set of teeth they'll get! Make sure to continue to see the dentist twice a year to take care of them.
How Should We Celebrate?
Every family is different, but we strongly encourage you to make a big deal about these adult teeth. Whether you give treats, money or just a good ol' fashioned letter from the tooth fairy, let your kiddos know that you're as excited as they are.
About Carolina Kids Dentistry:
Carolina Kids Dentistry is a pediatric dental practice that specializes in preventing dental disease and promoting a lifetime of healthy smiles in children from infancy through young adulthood and in special needs patients of all ages. We strive to make every dental visit a pleasant and comfortable one for your child. To meet the CKD team, or to schedule your child's next dental exam, call 980.339.8720 or visit them on the web at www.ckdentistry.com
