Losing primary teeth is a rite of passage for kids. Some adventurous tykes even look for ways to loosen their teeth even further to speed up the process, while also collecting some loot from the tooth fairy. Below, the pediatric dentists at Four Corners Dental Group in Anchorage provide some common ways kids deal with loose teeth, as well as the best course of action to take just before a tooth is about to fall out.

How to Remove Loose Teeth

1. Eat Certain Foods

Because apples are hard, biting into one will usually be enough to knock a loose tooth out of place. Kids can also try eating other hard foods, such as carrots or celery. Additionally, sugar-free gum is sticky enough to help pull the tooth out. Caution your child not to swallow the tooth when chewing.

2. Wiggle the Tooth

When a tooth already feels loose to the touch, giving it a gentle wiggle can provide enough force to separate it from the gums. Make sure your kids are washing their hands frequently to prevent infection.

3. Wait

Most pediatric dentists recommend kids wait when they feel the tell-tale signs of a loose tooth. While it can be uncomfortable, waiting for a tooth to fall out on its own is the safest method. If you’re having issues with your loose tooth, visit a family dentistry practice for assistance.

At Four Corners Dental Group, the dental care team recommends parents talk to their kids about letting loose teeth fall out on their own accord. They also offer a range of other procedures suited to the rest of the family. For instance, they provide preventative procedures as well as restorative treatments such as root canals and the placement of crowns. Visit the website for more informative dental care tips for kids and adults. If you’d like to schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist in Anchorage, feel free to call (907) 258-3384 today. You can also contact the Wasilla, AK, office by calling (907) 376-2790.