It is common knowledge that there is a time and season for everything. This old saying can’t be more accurate when it comes to teeth. However, many people fail to apply that in this case. And therefore, cause their children more dental problems. Humans have two sets of teeth which vary by age: the baby teeth and the adult ones. When children are born, they have milk teeth (baby teeth) which are eliminated as they mature. Elimination begins at a very early stage, from about age six, with the incisors loosening first. After which, the molar follows. This article frequently asked questions to explain everything you need to understand about loose teeth and when and how to pull them.

Frequently Asked Questions 

We must be cautious about their health because health is wealth. We’ve provided answers to the five most frequently asked questions to give you clarity on pulling your child’s tooth.

  • Is it right to pull out my child’s loose tooth? 
  • What to do when my child’s tooth is loose? 
  • When is the right time to pull out my child’s loose tooth? 
  • What is the best way to pull out a loose tooth?

Question 1: Is Forcing Out My Child’s Loose Tooth Right?

Some children begin to lose their primary teeth from age 5-7 to give room for adult teeth. However, no matter how loose a child’s tooth is, it is hazardous to force it out. The reason is that it can cause damage to another sensitive part of the tooth and fractures to the jawbone. It can also lead to infection, bleeding, and severe pain.

Question 2: What to Do When My Child’s Tooth is Loose? 

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), there are two types of kids. Those who don’t want your help in pulling out a loose tooth due to fear. And those who want you to help them out. If your child falls into the former category, it’s best to leave them to it, as some children enjoy jiggling their loose teeth with their fingers or tongues. 

If your child asks you for help pulling a loose tooth, as recommended by the ADA, the best method is to take a tissue, put it over the tooth, and squeeze it gently. 

What should you do when your child’s loose tooth is out?

Research by the International Journal of Pediatric Dentistry in 2018 showed that 78 per cent of children who lose a milk tooth feel mixed emotions of joy and pride. The remaining 22 per cent experience a pessimistic emotion of fear and sadness. Therefore, the ADA suggests that you encourage them and make them understand that losing a tooth is an inevitable part of growth.

Question 3: Whenever Is the Right Time to Pull Out My Child’s Loose Tooth?

Pulling a loose tooth at the wrong time could harm the tissues. It can cause the remains of the tooth bone to get stuck in the socket. And in most cases, you might infect your child’s teeth. A milk tooth should only be pulled out when it is very loose. This way, there will be little or no pain. If your little one experiences severe pain in removing a tooth, it’s proof that the roots have not properly dissolved for the safe removal of that tooth. 

You can pull out your child’s tooth on your own or visit a dentist for safe removal. Before the removal, discuss the best and least painful procedures with your dentist. It can also be an educational session for your kids. That is, an opportunity to let them know how vital their future adult teeth are!

Question 4: What’s The Best Way to Pull Out a Child’s Loose Tooth?

The best way to pull out a child’s loose tooth is patience from both the parent and the child. As stated earlier, it shouldn’t be a great difficulty. The best way to pull out your child’s loose tooth is:

  • Place a clean ice pack on the gum near the tooth for a few minutes to lessen the pain,
  • Place a tissue, gauze, or piece of paper and hold the tooth, and
  • Gently twist the tooth until it falls.

Question 5: What Other Reasons Can Cause Loose Teeth?

Apart from the natural elimination of the milk teeth, other reasons that can make your child’s teeth loose are;

Tooth Decay

In natural cases, the permanent teeth slowly push out the milk teeth. But with tooth decay, the root of the teeth slowly rots away, starting with the enamel and the gum. Tooth decay mostly happens when bacteria grow over time to form a plague. Some ways to identify tooth decay are;

  • Severe pain around the decayed tooth
  • Increased sensitivity of the tooth
  • Brown or white spots on the tooth

To prevent tooth decay, ensure your child brushes twice daily- morning and night and flosses at least once daily.

Injuries

Another cause of loose teeth is injuries. They could be gotten from rough play and intensive sports. Tooth injuries can be easily noticed by gum swelling, tooth chips, and bleeding. 

Conclusion

Encouragement is key! It’s natural for every child to lose a tooth. As a parent, you should make them understand this and help them grow healthy teeth. If external factors like decay or injuries are the reasons for your child’s loose tooth, be sure to have them visit a trusted pediatric dentist immediately! 

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