By: Durriya Kapasi

A child’s primary (milk) teeth begins to loosen up and fall out on their own at about the age 6 and onwards, making space for the new and permanent teeth. Some children tend to be nervous after observing their tooth falling loose, while some others get excited about it. It also depends on how the parents react- if you are excited about this milestone, your child will be too.

A tooth is ready to fall out when it’s hanging by a single thread or turns pinkish. As soon as you know about it, try to keep yourself and your child calm, since there is nothing to worry about.

Explain why it is necessary for the milk teeth to fall out and it’s a must to happen with every child of his/ her age, most likely their classmates.

How to react when the tooth is hanging by a single thread?

To pluck it out, wash your hands first. Grab it firmly with gauze or a piece of tissue and wiggle it back to forth and side to side if it’s a bit hard. Otherwise, just remove it with an immediate twist.

Don’t panic if the tooth is resistant. Try again after some days or visit the dentist if you are unable to do it.

What to do after the baby teeth has been pulled out?

-Ask your child spit out the blood coming out from the gums and rinse their mouth with warm water.

-Avoid giving them sugary treats such as, hard candy or cold drinks.

-Ask your child to keep their tongue and fingers away from the empty tooth spot, as some like feeling their gums- especially with contaminated hands.

– Help your child when they are brushing their teeth, and ask them to brush twice a day.

-Schedule regular visits to the dentist and ask your dentist about the fluoride or dental sealants to avoid tooth decay.

Lastly, tell your child about the tooth fairy.

Narrate the story about the Tooth Fairy, if they are still unfamiliar with it. Tooth Fairy is a folklore and It’s very well-liked by children.

Tooth Fairy

When a child loses its tooth and keeps that fallen tooth below the pillow, the tooth fairy will visit while the child is fast asleep and she will keep a coin in the place of that tooth.

Those children, who already know this- made up story, do get very excited about finding some coins under their pillow in the morning.

So, be cool and easy with your child. Allow them to put their tooth underneath the pillow at night. When he/she is fast asleep, get rid of the tooth silently and place some coins at the same place right away.

Our children’s happiness matters the most, right?

About Author Durriya Kapasi is a passionate writer, housewife and a mother. She has authored stories  She’s Still My Sister and  Lydia The Pet Communicator  on wattpad.com