Morristown Pediatric Dentistry

MOST OF US can still remember what it was like to lose a baby tooth, especially that major Big Kid milestone of losing the first one. How did it happen for you? Did it take longer for you to lose a tooth than most of your classmates, or were you the one who knocked a tooth out on the playground before you knew it was loose? Regardless, losing a tooth is a big deal for kids, and now that we’re parents, we want to help that be a positive experience for our own kids.

Establish the Right Mindset First

While losing baby teeth is a perfectly normal part of growing up, it can still be a scary new experience for little kids. The first time they have a loose tooth can be particularly scary as kids don’t yet know what to expect when it comes out. Parents can make it easier by encouraging the right mindset. Emphasize that losing a tooth is part of being a big kid! Help them focus on what an achievement it is to lose a baby tooth instead of dwelling on how it might hurt. This can be exciting!

Helping With a Loose Tooth

The technique is as important as a good mindset. We would discourage parents from chasing their kids down with a pair of pliers or tricking them with that old “I just want to feel it!” ruse to get close enough to pull the loose tooth. Encourage them instead to gently wiggle the tooth on their own with their tongue, a tissue, or a clean finger. Let them set the pace and only intervene if they ask for your help pulling the tooth.

You can also make it fun by coming up with a creative way to pull it, like thisSilly ways like this allow your child to be in control and be distracted during the process. The loose tooth is out of their mouth before they even know it. How much fun!!

Come Up With a Creative Reward

The standard way of giving a child a good incentive to brave the pain of losing a tooth is the Tooth Fairy, but why not make things a little more unique? Your child might be more motivated by a promise of a trip to the ice cream shop or a new toy. What would be the most exciting prize for your child when they complete this rite of passage? Finding the right motivation for your child will help them reach this milestone.

Come to Us With Your Concerns

If you’ve followed all these tips for how to make it fun and exciting but your child is still afraid of losing a tooth, we are here to help! As a pediatric dental practice, working with children is our specialty. If  you child doesn’t seem to have a loose tooth at the appropriate time, bring them in to see us. We can investigate why the teeth aren’t becoming loose as they should.

We’re excited to hear about your child’s adventures with their loose tooth!

Morristown Pediatric Dentistry provides dental services for children and adolescents in the Lakeway Area. We strive to provide a fun, caring, and child-friendly environment. We are here to help your children form healthy oral hygiene habits and help them take care of their teeth. We are conveniently located in the heart of Morristown at 950 West 1st North Street. To make an appointment with one of Morristown Pediatric Dentistry’s doctors, please call: 423-581-1877.

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 providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.

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