MOST ADULTS can still remember when we lost our first baby tooth. We remember how it happened to us. If it took longer for us to lose a tooth than most of our classmates, or if we were the ones who knocked a tooth out on the playground before we even knew it was loose? Thats because losing a tooth is a big deal for kids, and now as parents, we want to help this be a positive experience for our children.
Having the Right Mindset
Losing a baby tooth, while a perfectly normal part of growing up, can be a scary new experience for our little ones, especially the first time it happens, and they don't yet know what to expect. By encouraging the right mindset, parents can make it easier. Emphasize the exciting parts of losing a tooth, that it's part of becoming a big kid! Instead of thinking about how it might hurt, help them focus on what an achievement it is to lose a baby tooth.
Helping With a Loose Tooth
Just as important as the technique is a good mindset. We would discourage parents from tricking their child with that old "I just want to feel it!" ruse to get close enough to pull the tooth or chase them down with a pair of pliers. Instead, encourage them to on their own, gently wiggle the tooth with their tongue, a clean finger, or a tissue. Let them set the pace and only intervene if they ask for your help pulling the tooth.
Come Up With a Creative Reward
The Tooth Fairy is the standard way of providing a good incentive to brave the pain of losing a tooth, but why not make things a little more unique? Perhaps your child might be more motivated by a promise of a trip to the ice cream shop or a new toy or prize when they complete this rite of passage?
Come to Us With Your Concerns
If you've followed all these tips for how to make losing a tooth exciting and fun, but your child is still afraid of losing a tooth, we can help! As a pediatric dental practice, working with children is our specialty. If their teeth don't seem to be becoming loose when they should, you can also bring them to us so we can investigate why that is.
We're excited to hear about your child's adventures with their loose tooth!
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health.
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