What is what to do when child loses first tooth?

Losing a first tooth is a big milestone! Here's a guide on what to do:

• Celebrate! This is a special occasion. Acknowledge the event with enthusiasm and excitement.

• Examine the Tooth: Let your child examine their tooth. Talk about how cool it is that their body naturally made it fall out. Check for any sharp edges and ensure the gums aren't bleeding excessively.

• Oral Hygiene: Gently rinse the area where the tooth fell out with lukewarm water. Continue practicing good oral hygiene like brushing and flossing, being extra gentle around the new gap.

• The Tooth Fairy: If you're participating in the Tooth Fairy tradition, decide on the "going rate" and create a memorable experience. You could leave a small gift or money under their pillow.

• Save the Tooth (Optional): Some parents save the first tooth as a keepsake. If you choose to do so, rinse it thoroughly and store it in a safe place, like a small container or envelope. Some dentists might encourage saving baby teeth for future stem cell research, but this is a less common practice.

• Reassurance: Reassure your child that losing teeth is a normal part of growing up and that more teeth will come in its place.

• Dealing with Discomfort: If your child experiences any discomfort or bleeding, offer a cold compress or a mild pain reliever, if necessary, following the appropriate dosage for their age and weight. See a dentist if discomfort or bleeding persists.