For many children, losing a baby tooth is an exciting event—not only does it indicate that they’re growing up, but it also usually warrants an upcoming visit from the tooth fairy! However, other children experience stress and occasionally trauma when they lose their baby teeth. Here are a few tips from your pediatric dentist to help make losing teeth less scary for your little one.
Tip #1. Stay Positive & Friendly
Your child might start losing teeth around age 4, and this pattern normally continues for a couple of years. It’s totally normal for them to wonder what’s going on and ask questions; after all, it’s a pretty noticeable change for them! Be sure that you’re remaining optimistic and upbeat when discussing tooth loss with your little one; ensure they view it as a normal part of growing up and nothing to be afraid of.
Tip #2. Explain What’s Going On
Your child might colloquially hear things about tooth loss from their classmates or friends, and what they’re hearing might not always be accurate. They might hear falsehoods about tooth loss being painful or that their teeth will never grow back. In addition to maintaining a positive attitude, be informative and comprehensible. Assure them that they’re perfectly okay and that their adult teeth will arrive before they know it.
Tip #3. Get the Tooth Fairy Involved
For many of us, losing baby teeth isn’t just a rite of passage into adulthood—it’s a reason for a visit from the tooth fairy! The legend of the tooth fairy dates back to medieval Europe, and children all across the globe have been receiving visits from her for generations. If your child is worried about losing a tooth, you might find a picture or book about the tooth fairy that can instill confidence; or at the very least, let the promise of a dollar bill under their pillow incentivize them!
Tip #4. Know When to Call for Help
Most of the time, a lost baby tooth is nothing to worry about. However, if your kid lost the tooth due to trauma (like a sports injury), it might necessitate emergency care to ensure that no other oral issues have resulted from the injury. If your child is dealing with pain due to a lost tooth, don’t hesitate to contact us!
About the Practice
Our team here at Kids’ Smiles on Lincoln is thrilled to provide an exceptional array of pediatric dental services to families in the Worcester community. Under the leadership of Dr. Myles Clancy, you can rest assured that your little one will receive an elite level of care that’ll leave their smile as happy and healthy as can be. If you have any questions about the article or need to arrange a visit for your child, please visit our website or give us a call at (508) 290-0090.