Reviewed by Dr. Paul Rubin
Reading time: four minutes.
When your child has a loose tooth, it’s tempting to want to speed things along, especially if the tooth is hanging by a thread. But not every wiggly tooth is ready to come out.
Some fall out easily on their own. Others need a little more time, and a few may require help from a dentist.
In this blog, we explain how to tell the difference, how to safely handle a loose tooth at home, and when to leave it to the pros.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
Only pull a loose baby tooth if it’s very wiggly, painless, and your child is ready. When in doubt, let it fall out naturally or consult with your pediatric dentist.
How Do Baby Teeth Fall Out?
Baby teeth fall out as part of a natural process that makes room for the permanent teeth underneath. As the adult tooth begins to grow, it puts pressure on the roots of the baby tooth. Over time, that pressure causes the roots to break down and dissolve.
Without roots to anchor it, the baby tooth becomes loose and eventually falls out, usually with a little wiggling first. This process happens gradually and is usually painless, though your child might notice mild tenderness or a feeling of movement weeks before the tooth is ready to come out.
When It Is Safe To Pull A Loose Tooth
The golden rule: never force it. But if the tooth is extremely loose, your child isn’t in pain, and the gums look healthy, it’s usually safe to give it a gentle assist.
Signs a tooth is ready to come out:
- The tooth wiggles freely in multiple directions
- There is no pain when your child pushes on it
- There is no redness, swelling, or bleeding around the tooth
- Your child is asking you to help remove it
How To Pull A Loose Tooth Safely
If your child is ready and the tooth is barely attached, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands thoroughly.
- Use a clean tissue or gauze pad.
- Grip the tooth firmly and pull with a quick, gentle twist.
- Apply pressure with a clean gauze pad to stop bleeding.
If a blood clot forms in the tooth socket, that is a good sign. It means the body has started healing. Have your child rinse with warm salt water later to keep the area clean.
What Not To Do
- Do not tie a string around the tooth. This old method can tear the gum tissue and cause pain or bleeding.
- Do not yank a tooth that is not ready. If it is still firmly attached, pulling it can damage the root or cause infection.
- Do not pull a tooth if your child is scared or resisting. Forcing it can make them fearful of dental care.
If your child complains of severe pain, or if the area looks swollen, red, or is oozing pus, call us right away. These could be signs of infection or a problem with the erupting permanent tooth.
When A Loose Tooth Becomes A Problem
Some loose teeth just will not let go, even when the adult tooth has already erupted behind it. This can lead to:
- Tooth crowding
- Misalignment of permanent teeth
- Increased risk of tooth decay
In these cases, we may recommend a tooth extraction.
Let Nature Do Its Thing
In most cases, daily activities like chewing and brushing will help the tooth fall out naturally. Encourage your child to eat soft foods and avoid chewy foods, crunchy foods, or anything spicy if the area is tender. Keep up with good oral hygiene to avoid risk of infection during this period.
| Pro Tip: Let Your Child Take The LeadSome kids are proud of their wiggly teeth. Others feel nervous. Explain that this is a normal part of growing up. Let them take the lead unless they ask for help. |
Schedule A Dental Exam In Prosper, TX
Whether you are dealing with a loose tooth, have questions about your child’s dental development, or just want to stay on top of routine care, we’re here to help. Our pediatric team in Prosper offers gentle, knowledgeable support for every stage of your child’s smile.
To book an appointment for a dental exam at our pediatric dental office in Prosper, TX, call (469) 228-4402 or visit us at 240 S. Preston Road, Suite 10 Prosper, TX 75078.
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