Talking With Your Kids About Losing Teeth

Do you remember what it was like when you started to lose your teeth as a kid? Some recall that it was painful. Others have funny stories about the odd places they were when teeth fell out, like a restaurant, baseball game, or a family vacation. While some were worried about the change or the way it looked, others were excited and happy to show off their gap-filled grins. Regardless of how your own kid feels about the situation, there are a few things you can do to make the process easier and more enjoyable for everyone. Below are a few ideas for Indiana kids.

Remind Them What It Means

Losing baby teeth is a huge milestone in any child’s life. It means that they are growing up and that their bodies are changing accordingly. This is a great opportunity to talk to your kids about the importance of good oral health throughout their lifetime. Take a few minutes to explain to them that the new teeth that grow in will be the last pair that they have, so it’s important to take good care of them through brushing, flossing, healthy eating habits, and regular dentist appointments. As soon as you notice that their teeth are getting loose, explain what will happen and what to do when teeth fall out. Let your child know that if he or she loses a tooth at school, he or she can always talk to a teacher or staff nurse for help.

Remind Them That It Is Normal

There’s no definitive time that guarantees when a child will start losing teeth. It generally occurs between the ages of four and seven, though it varies widely from individual to individual. It’s important to remember that there is no wrong way for a baby tooth to fall out. Remind your children that teeth sometimes fall out naturally when they least expect it while others can come out with a little force if they choose to pull it.

Make It Exciting

Losing teeth should be a celebration! Most parents choose to have the tooth fairy visit a child once he or she starts losing teeth. This tradition has changed some over the years as paper currency becomes less common and most kids don’t have the ability accept credit cards or checks. Some tooth fairies are opting for more unique gifts, like coins from other countries or toothbrushes, floss, paste, and other tools for taking care of teeth. Whatever the tooth fairy does at your house, try to make it as fun and memorable as possible. This will help your kids feel excited about losing more teeth. Be sure to also document the experience with photos, videos, and even journal entries. These memories will be fun to look back on later in life.

Let Us Help

If your little one is worried about losing teeth or curious about why it happens, don’t be afraid to bring it up at his or her next dentist appointment. We’re always happy to help children better understand how their mouths work and why caring for them matters. We can also answer tough questions about what’s normal and what’s not during the process and even assist with pulling loose teeth if your child is nervous about it.

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