How to Deal With Kids Losing Teeth
Excitement, nervousness, tension, fear – losing a tooth can elicit a wide range of reactions from young kids. While the process is almost always the same, kids’ reactions to losing a tooth may vary drastically. Here’s what to expect when kids begin to lose their teeth and how you can help them better deal with it.
When Do Kids Start Losing Teeth?
A significant childhood milestone, the process of losing primary teeth generally begins between the ages of 4 and 8. This may vary among kids, with girls often losing teeth earlier than boys. Teeth begin to loosen when permanent adult teeth begin to push out the baby ones. The order in which the teeth fall is similar to the order in which they first grew – the first tooth that came in is generally the first to fall. The bottom front teeth go first, followed by the top front teeth, and gradually, the rest of them begin to loosen and fall out as part of this larger process.
What to Expect and How to Deal With It
Your child’s first lost tooth is a momentous occasion. Parents are both excited and nervous about how their kids will react and what the best way to handle the situation is. Here’s a brief and easy guide of what you should be prepared for when your kids start losing their teeth!
Wiggle Wonder – Noticing the First Loose Tooth
Your child will probably come running to you the minute he notices a loose tooth. If your child is more excited than afraid, there’s little to worry about. But if your child reacts with fear and apprehension, then it is important to first address and calm those fears. Explain to him or her that this is a normal process and is rarely ever painful. It is, in fact, an exciting time because now he or she is growing up! Emphasize that there is nothing to worry about. If he is still afraid, you could visit a dentist who can be the best equipped with helping reassure your little one.
What NOT to Do With the Loose Tooth
It can sometimes take up to a few weeks or even months for a tooth to fall out completely. If you have an adventurous little one, ensure that he does not try and yank the tooth out prematurely! Also, ask him to avoid fiddling with his tooth with his hands. Hands should be washed thoroughly before kids use their fingers to wiggle their tooth.
What TO Do With the Loose Tooth
- When your child’ begins to lose his first tooth, encourage him to gently use his tongue and wiggle the tooth back and forth several times day.
- Give the tooth time to fall out on its own. Do not be in hurry to pull it out forcefully.
- If a tooth is taking too long to fall out, it is best to visit a dentist. If needed, the dentist may need to extract the loose tooth if it is not moving on its own.
Brushing and Flossing
Sometimes, kids tend to avoid brushing their teeth when a tooth is about to fall out. Encourage your child to brush and floss twice every day. They can be gentle around the area of the loose tooth, and you can help them floss if necessary.
Eating Trouble
Dealing with kids losing teeth can be a tightrope walk for many parents. The area around the loose tooth can sometimes cause discomfort and be painful for kids. Biting into a sandwich with a loose font tooth can definitely leave the little ones distressed! Try to give your kids food that is easy to bite and chew. Minimize their discomfort by including options like boiled eggs, mashed potatoes, oatmeal, and puddings on the menu.
Introducing the Tooth Fairy
One of the biggest reasons why kids are excited about losing their teeth is the Tooth Fairy! In these impressionable years, kids are delighted and excited about receiving a visit and a gift from the Tooth Fairy. Once the loose tooth comes out, preserve it carefully. Decide before hand what you would like the Tooth Fairy to leave for your child. Remember, many teeth are going to follow suit, so do not get excited and get your child used to receiving something big every time he or she loses a tooth! Be reasonable about it and patiently answer all your child’s Tooth Fairy-related questions.
Comparisons and Questions
It is only natural for kids to discuss everything with their friends in school. If your child compares what the Tooth Fairy left the other kids, keep some answers ready! If your child’s friends received $5 and you gave your child $1, you could explain that many kids lost their teeth on the same day as your child, so the amount was lesser!
Keep communication lines open and answer all your child’s questions patiently. Losing baby teeth is definitely a landmark event in your child’s life. Make it a smooth and painless transition for your little one.
