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.
Outstanding customer car for our 15 yrs old Autistic Granddaughter. Rebekah really helped put our minds and ease and helped us plan the next visit when it came to reservations we had on the cost of this treatment, and future ones. This is expensive, but worth it knowing they help special needs kids, teens and adults. Sedation dentistry team handle everything great! Thank you Dr. Thoms and the team!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review. We’re so glad our team could provide a supportive and reassuring experience while helping you plan for future care. It means a great deal to know you felt informed and cared for every step of the way. We truly appreciate your kind words and the trust you’ve placed in us.
Dr Thoms specializes in dental anesthesia for patients with Special Needs. My daughter has been a patient of his for many years. His experience, depth of knowledge and understanding the needs of Special Needs patients is excellent. He presents clear and detailed information for his procedures and treatment options along with expectations during aftercare. Follow up instructions include a personal phone call from him as well as additional calls from his office staff. I highly recommend Dr Thoms and definitely give him 5 stars.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience. We’re grateful for the trust families place in our team and are committed to providing thoughtful, individualized care with clear communication every step of the way. Your recommendation means a great deal to us!
My hygienist, DeLaina Joost, takes excellent care of my teeth with her advanced skills, gentle touch and great “chair side” manner. She is a consummate professional, and such a compassionate person. I look forward to my visits at DAC!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad to hear you had a positive experience with our team and appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback.
I want to thank everyone at the Dental Anesthesia Center for taking care of me yesterday—Meaghan helped me get the forms filled out correctly and in on time, Daisy for guiding me in and getting me out safely, Dr. Hoffman for taking care of my teeth and dealing with my really terrible gag reflex, and EVERYONE who helps make this happen. I don't know all of your names, but I do know that it takes all of you working together to make my dental care possible and have good results.
I'm always nervous when I first arrive, even though every procedure has had a good outcome. I've never had any pain or excessive bleeding as a result. The one thing I realized yesterday is that all of you are warm, friendly, positive, you have what is called a good vibe, which helps me a great deal.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience. We’re so glad our team could help you feel comfortable and supported throughout your visit. Providing a safe, positive environment is very important to us, and your feedback means a great deal. We truly appreciate your trust in our care!
Dr. Thoms and his entire staff at The Dental Anesthesia Center have been absolutely wonderful!! They're all so kind and knowledgeable. I would give them 10 stars if I could!!!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words! We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. It means a lot to hear this feedback.
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!
