Pediatric Dentist: When Your Child Loses Their First Tooth

Losing the first tooth can be an overwhelming feeling for a child.

It is hard to think back that far, but losing your first tooth may have been a very anxious time in your young life. Although it may be made easier by the promise of a visit from the Tooth Fairy, losing a first tooth can be an overwhelming feeling.

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The Dental Anesthesia Center: Sedation and Sleep Dentistry4.9

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Kimberly C.

We had a very positive experience with Dental Anesthesia Center. Dr. Thoms and his entire staff were kind, patient, and understanding throughout the entire process. My child has special needs, and as an anxious mom, I truly appreciated how compassionate and reassuring everyone was. We were referred to Dr. Thoms by our child’s dentist, and they took the time to explain everything while genuinely wanting to do what was best for my son. Communication was excellent throughout the procedure, which helped ease a lot of my anxiety. The office staff, including the ladies who handled the payment process, were just as kind and helpful, and I never felt pressured when discussing treatment or costs. The cost was more than we anticipated and definitely an unexpected expense, but my child’s needs always come first. Most importantly, my son seemed very comfortable afterward, did not appear to be in pain, and was eating an hour after the procedure. I don’t give perfect scores lightly, but I would absolutely recommend Dr. Thoms and his team to other families, especially parents of children with special needs.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review and kind words. We’re grateful for the opportunity to provide care and appreciate you trusting our team. Wishing you and your family all the best!

Dave K.

As a 75 year old man, I have been to several dentist’s and none compare to Dr. Thoms and Dr. Behl. The entire staff is very knowledgeable and accommodating. I have had some major work done and I/V sedation is definitely the way to go. Five stars to the entire team at DAC. I highly recommend their services.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and recommendation! We truly appreciate your trust in our team. It’s always our goal to provide comfortable, high-quality care to every patient.

Chris H.

Great staff, and great experience!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the 5-star review—we truly appreciate your support!

Keith T.

They were very professional. And fortunately, I don’t remember anything else!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind review! We appreciate your feedback and support.

Leeann P.

Very professional!! Dr Thom is amazing! Staff takes wonderful care of me!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We appreciate your feedback and are grateful for the opportunity to provide a positive experience.

When your child is about to lose a tooth, it can become very sensitive, and any anxiety they have about it falling out may increase. That is why being communicative and supportive is so important in creating a positive experience.

Losing the First Tooth

Most children lose their first tooth by the age of six, although every child is different. Typically, all of their baby teeth are gone around the age of 13. Of course, every child goes through it on their own time frame. Although most parents think that it’s the end of the story once the tooth is gone, if it’s not anticipated or treated correctly, the tooth loss can cause problems. If your child has lost their first tooth, it is important not just to make sure that the Tooth Fairy leaves them a little surprise but that you care properly for the socket that is left.

Make sure to wipe their gums – When your child loses their tooth, there is going to be a gaping socket where the tooth once stood. To ensure that an infection doesn’t set in, make sure to wipe the socket with a sterile gauze pad. You will also want to have them rinse their mouth with a mixture of salt water to prevent any inflammation or infection and to soothe your child’s mouth. If they are having a hard time with pain, then you can place a cool tea bag on the open socket or give them Motrin or Tylenol just to take the sting away.

Don’t brush the missing tooth space – You want to encourage your child to brush their teeth at least twice a day, but once they lose that first tooth you need to make sure that they skip over the sore and empty socket. If they brush it, it will further irritate and hurt the area. The socket is going to be tender for a day or two, so just make sure that they gloss over the area where the tooth is missing.

Consider mouthwash – To ensure that the socket doesn’t become infected, consider using mouthwash. Mouthwashes have antibacterial ingredients that are excellent for your child’s first tooth loss. Since you want them to not brush the area, mouthwash can ensure that no bacteria sets in or add inflammation to the injury of the tooth loss.

There are all sorts of milestones that parents and children get to go through. Your child’s first tooth loss is exciting, and if you handle it right, it can be a positive experience for you both.

Pediatric Dentistry in St. Louis

Your child’s initial oral examination will include a visual examination, charting, diagnosis, and treatment recommendations. We work hard to make your child feel at ease by providing exceptional patient care in a relaxed, convenient atmosphere.

Call us today to schedule your appointment at (314) 862-7844. We look forward to meeting you!