How to Handle a Loose Tooth: A Parent’s Guide

A loose tooth is a common part of childhood, but as a parent, you may wonder whether to let it fall out naturally or take action. While babyteeth are meant to loosen and fall out on their own, there are times when a loose tooth may require attention from a pediatric dentist. Understanding when to let nature take its course and when to seek professional care can help ensure your child’s oralhealth stays on track.

At Cedar Brook Pediatric Dentistry, we provide expert care for children inSouthborough, MA, helping parents navigate every stage of their child’sdental development. Whetheryour child’s loose tooth isdue to natural shedding or an unexpected accident, here’s what you need to know.

When Is a Loose Tooth Normal?

Most children startlosing their baby teeth aroundage six, and this processcontinues until about age twelve. If your child has aloose tooth due to natural growth, it will usually fall out on its own withoutmuch discomfort.

To ensure the process goes smoothly:

• Encourage your child to wiggle the tooth gentlywith their tonguerather than pullingon it.
• Avoid hard or sticky foods that could force the tooth out too early.
• Keep up with good oral hygiene,including regular brushingand flossing.

Routine visits to a top pediatric dentist near Southborough can help monitoryour child’s oral development and ensure their teethare falling out at the right time.

When Is a Loose Tooth a Concern?

While many loose teeth are part of the normal growth process, certainsituations requireprofessional attention:

Accidents or Trauma – If your child’stooth became loosedue to a fall or injury, it’s important to see an emergencypediatric dentist in Southborough MA. They can determine whether the toothshould be stabilized or removed.

Tooth Decay or Gum Issues – A loose tooth caused by decay or infection may needtreatment to prevent further damage to the surrounding teeth and gums.

Early ToothLoss – If a baby tooth becomes loose too soon, it could affectthe alignment of the permanent teeth coming in behind it.

If your child’sloose tooth is causing discomfort, bleeding, or doesn’tseem to be falling out on its own, it’s best to visit a pediatricdentist in Southborough MA for an evaluation.

What ShouldYou Do If Your Child’sTooth Is Loose?

If your child’s tooth is wigglybut not quite ready to fall out:

• Encourage gentle wiggling withoutforceful pulling.
• Offer soft foods to avoid unnecessary stress on the tooth.
• Rinse with warm salt water if they experience minor discomfort.

If the tooth is causing pain, swelling, or interfering with eating,it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment with a top pediatricdentist Southborough to ensure everything is progressing as itshould.

When to Visita Pediatric Dentist

If your child is experiencing persistent pain, swelling, or an unexpected loose tooth due to an accident, a visit to an emergency pediatricdentist in Southborough MA can providerelief and guidance.

At Cedar Brook Pediatric Dentistry, we offer expertcare for growing smiles, ensuring your child’steeth develop properly and remain healthy. If you have concerns about a loosetooth, schedule an appointment with our friendly pediatric dental team today!