Should I pull a baby tooth out, if so how and when? How long should a baby tooth stay loose?
The body is truly amazing in so many ways (and just plain frustrating in others). While a visit from the tooth fairy can be exciting for some kids, others are left frustrated that she may never pay a visit. There are so many variations in how/when/where teeth become loose and actually fall out, that it can be stressful for both parents and kids. Most kids will go along simply following the “normal” pattern and have regular visits from that darn fairy. Some parents don’t ever have to lay a hand on those slippery little rascals while others are wondering if they need string or pliers.
In most cases, even if a tooth is loose for awhile, it will come out on its own or with the help of the child wiggling it. If you are unsure, you really should make a visit to your dentist for an evaluation. There are times when we elect to extract a baby tooth. Some teeth are stubborn and when they don’t come out on their own, the permanent one tries to come in around it. This can create orthodontic problems in the future, so in this instance it is generally recommended to remove the baby tooth. This is usually only done when the tooth is evaluated and determined that it just isn’t going to come out on its own.
Also, on occasion, we will “help” the little guy out of there if we feel there is a choking hazard. This is rare, but is done if the tooth is extremely loose and the child or parent just can’t get it out. It is generally very easy to get out without upsetting the child. If half of the tooth is broken out and the other half is stuck and not loose, it is wise to bring the child to the dentist for an x-ray. Your dentist may or may not choose to extract the remnant, depending on what the x-ray reveals and other considerations which they will discuss with you.
I personally do not recommend string tied to doors (OUCH!) or pliers from the garage. The one tool I do recommend is patience. Challenging, I know but it will eventually come out with a little twisting and wiggling and a positive attitude!
Dr. Jamie Brown - http://www.your-childs-teeth.comTags: Baby Teeth, Baby Tooth, Dentist, Doors, Little Rascals, Orthodontic Problems, Ouch, Parents, Permanent One, Pliers, Remnant, Tooth Fairy, Variations, X Ray