Toddlers' baby teeth are smaller, softer and less embedded in the gums than adult teeth. This makes them easier to knock loose. When trauma causes loose teeth, it can be frightening, but the injuries are normally easily treated. Though the loose teeth may look strange and can get very bloody, avoid panicking. This will only frighten your child, and children bleed more and heal more slowly when they are anxious or afraid.
Common Causes
A blow to the mouth is the most common reason for a loose tooth. In some cases, extreme decay may cause loose teeth. Baby teeth are more susceptible to decay than adult teeth, according to pediatrician and author William Sears, and sugary drinks and snacks can loosen them. In some cases, a toddler's loose tooth is not caused by an injury at all. Some children, especially girls, lose their baby teeth very early.
What to Do
If your child's loose tooth is due to a blow to the mouth or face, seek medical attention immediately. There could be damage to the surrounding bone structure. Your child's dentist may remove the tooth or place stitches on the site of the wound. If the tooth is not from a blow to the mouth and is not bleeding or causing your child pain, you can wait until the next day to see the dentist. Your child's dentist will assess the cause of the loose tooth and may pull it, fill a cavity or leave the tooth alone.
Home Care
Apply pressure to the bleeding site and keep your child calm and quiet if her mouth is bleeding. If your child is in pain after the dentist has treated the tooth, apply cold compresses to help with swelling and use an oral numbing gel to ease the pain.
Prevention
To prevent future tooth injuries, have your child wear a mouth guard when she's playing sports or riding her bike. Remove sodas and sweetened juices from her diet. These liquids commonly cause tooth decay in children. Encourage her to drink water, and help her brush and floss her teeth twice a day.
References
- "The Portable Pediatrician"; William Sears, et al.;2011
- "Caring For Your Baby and Young Child, 5th Edition"; American Academy of Pediatrics; 2009
- "Health, Safety and Nutrition for the Young Child"; Lynn R. Marotz; 2011
