Can I Pull Out My Child’s Loose Tooth?

We can probably all remember a time when we had help removing a loose tooth as kids. Older siblings may have tied a piece of string to the doorknob and the other end to the loose tooth or dad may have just reached in and yanked the tooth out! While our grandparents and parents never thought twice about this practice, you may be wondering if it’s harmful to forcibly remove your own child’s loose tooth.

Pulling Out a Loose Tooth 

Just because your child’s tooth is loose does not mean that the permanent teeth are on their way in. Many times, a loose tooth is as a result of roughhousing or accidents, causing the tooth to loosen due to force. If this happens, please make an appointment for your child here at Great Outdoors Pediatric Dentistry as there is a risk of infection in the soft tissues or damage to the adult tooth growing in.

When your child’s teeth do begin to loosen and fall out, we do not advise that you pull them out. This is because the sensitive tissues around the tooth could become damaged, causing bleeding, pain, or even an infection. It’s natural for children to be curious about loose teeth, using their tongues or fingers to wiggle the teeth. This is perfectly normal and the best way to approach a loose tooth – allowing it to fall out naturally!

For a child who is anxious for a visit from the Tooth Fairy, waiting for a tooth to fall out on its own can be very frustrating. But this is the best way to make sure to avoid pain, bleeding, and possible infection or damage to the permanent tooth underneath.

If you’re concerned about your child’s loose tooth or to make an appointment for your child to receive a dental cleaning and an exam, please don’t hesitate to contact Great Outdoors Pediatric Dentistry. Our office is located here in Dover, New Hampshire!