Tooth loss in children is a normal part of growth and development. However, losing a permanent or adult tooth is more serious. Here’s what to know.
Children lose teeth for several reasons, ranging from normal growth to severe tooth decay and accidents.
Tooth loss in children is part of growth and development as adult teeth come in and push baby or primary teeth out. Your child will start to lose teeth around age six because of permanent teeth development. The first teeth to go are often the front center teeth.
However, poor hygiene and diet can lead to tooth decay and cavities, even in babies, and severe tooth decay may lead to tooth loss in children. The problem with early tooth loss is that it can cause permanent teeth to come in too soon or cause teeth to migrate to fill in the gaps. Without enough space, these adult teeth may be crooked, and your child may need braces later.
Sometimes, kids fall or get hurt during sports and knock out a tooth. These accidents may cause pain and bleeding and cause adult teeth to come in too early.
A few tips can help you manage baby teeth loss and keep your child’s teeth and mouth healthy, whether during normal or accidental tooth loss.
Explain what is happening in child-friendly and positive language to avoid anxiety or fear. Some parents use the Tooth Fairy to ease fears and create a positive experience.
Encourage your child to wiggle the loose tooth as much as possible with their tongue or clean hands. Otherwise, their gums can tighten around the loose tooth, stopping it from falling out and causing adult teeth to come in behind it.
Once the tooth falls out, have your child rinse their mouth with lukewarm water. You can wash the gums with a clean cloth if there’s any bleeding and give them Tylenol and soft foods if they feel pain or tenderness.
Accidents happen, and teeth fall out. If that happens to your child, find the tooth and wash it off with clean water. Hold the tooth by the top and avoid touching the root. Then, put the tooth back in the socket as soon as possible. Gently push the tooth until it’s level with the teeth on either side. See your dentist right away.
If your child doesn't let you put the tooth back in, place it in a container with some milk or your child’s spit. See your dentist right away.
Losing permanent or adult teeth is riskier than losing baby teeth. Without treatment, permanent tooth loss can lead to bone loss, changes in facial structure, and speech and chewing problems. It’s best to treat permanent tooth loss in children to preserve dental and oral health as your children grow. There are a few options.
Dental implants are artificial teeth attached to a post. Your dentist surgically installs these to replace the missing tooth, fill in gaps in your child's smile, and restore chewing function. The implant stimulates the jaw, which helps maintain proper bone and facial structure.
A dental bridge is a set of false teeth that fill or “bridge” the gap where teeth are missing. Your dentist fits or bonds a crown or cap over the teeth on either side and fills the space with artificial teeth.
Hines Little Smiles is a pediatric dentist specializing in children’s dental care and oral health. With regular check-ups, we can help you manage tooth loss in children, hygiene, and overall health. Book an appointment to get started.
Call 614-475-5439 or request an appointment online to set up your first visit. We’ll be in touch soon.
