What if My Child Freaks Out When They Lose Their First Baby Tooth?

Every child is different, which can make predicting their reactions a bit difficult. You may have treasured your first lost tooth as a kid, but will your little one think of it the same way? What if they freak out instead or find the event upsetting?

There are a couple of ways you can help your child keep calm when they lose their first baby tooth, though it essentially comes down to good listening and positive parenting! For a detailed list of advice, simply keep reading.

Pay Attention to Your Tone

Knowing that your child is upset can be, well, upsetting! But it’s important to make sure your tone doesn’t creep up into a panicked soprano – especially if sibling roughhousing or a sports injury knocked the tooth loose. Children pick up on subtle cues from their caretakers, so your anxiety could make them more anxious. Let them know that this sort of thing happens all the time and that it’s not the end of the world.

Tell Them About the Tooth Fairy

Childhood fables like the Easter Bunny, Santa Clause, and the Tooth Fairy aren’t just tales told to make sure kids behave. Stories can help children understand the world around them and help them form values. Telling your little one that the Tooth Fairy will exchange their baby tooth for money, for example, reassures them that losing their temporary teeth is something to celebrate!

Affirm but Reassure

It’s crucial to communicate to your child that their feelings are valid – even if you know the thing they’re upset about isn’t harmful. How would you respond if someone told you that you were “overreacting” or “being irrational”? Probably not well! Instead, take care to affirm their feelings, but reassure them that even though losing a tooth might seem freaky, it’ll eventually allow them to eat grown-up food and benefit their oral health.

Don’t Be Afraid to Call Your Dentist

If your child’s tooth was knocked out suddenly or roughly, you should ask your dentist to check on the area, just in case there’s unseen damage. Don’t worry – like you, they don’t want your child to be upset if they can help it. A dentist experienced with pediatrics knows how to talk to kids and will do their best to comfort your child.

Of course, they’re there to answer any questions you may have as well, so if you’d simply like more tips for coaching your little one through losing their baby teeth, don’t hesitate to ask!

About the Practice

At Shea Dental of Scottsdale, we work hard to promote a friendly and comfortable environment for our patients. Dr. Emily Maslovich, one of our skilled dentists, has advanced training in pediatric dentistry. If your little one has lost a baby tooth, she can help you reassure them and will happily check their mouth to make sure everything’s okay! To contact our office or learn more about what to do if your child loses a tooth, call 480-998-3923.