Safe & Gentle Guide to Removing Loose Baby Teeth

When your child loses his baby teeth it is a milestone indicating he is growing up. Loose teeth typically fall out by themselves over time, but the process is often shortened by the child's curiosity. If the loose tooth is getting in the way of the permanent tooth's growth or causing discomfort, you might decide to help remove the tooth.

Things You'll Need

• Cotton gauze
• Wash cloth
• Ice cube

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Instructions

• 1

  Check your child's tooth to see how attached it is in the socket. If the tooth appears to be hanging by a thread, it is okay to remove. Pulling a tooth that is more securely attached can be painful and result in bleeding.

• 2

  Hold a piece of cotton gauze between your thumb and index finger. Grasp the loose tooth with the cotton gauze and gently twist and pull. The tooth should come out with ease.

• 3

  Press a clean piece of cotton gauze against the gum. Have your child hold the gauze in place, or assist the child if he is too young, to absorb any blood.

• 4

  Wrap an ice cube in a clean wash cloth and have your child hold the ice on his gum to ease discomfort and prevent swelling.