Losing baby teeth is quite normal for children between the ages of 6-12. Not only will a child begin to grow their permanent teeth, but they may also receive a visit from the tooth fairy. While losing baby teeth is quite normal, losing too many in a short amount of time can leave your child with gaps in their teeth. Some children may be unbothered, but others may dread smiling for an upcoming picture day at school.
If your child is feeling insecure about their smile, pediatric dentist Dr. Scott and the team at Parkcrest Dental have a few tips to boost your child’s confidence.
How do I explain losing baby teeth to my child?
Everyone will lose their baby teeth at one time or another, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. Explain to your child that their teeth will grow back, and perhaps many of their classmates are also in the process of losing their baby teeth. They are certainly not alone in the process, and within a few weeks, their smile will be back to normal.
Consider an age-appropriate book about baby teeth, and read them that story regularly.
Related Post: How To Help Your Child Lose Their First Tooth
How do I get my child excited about the Tooth Fairy?
Playing up the tooth fairy is also a great way to get your child in a better mood after losing their teeth. The tooth fairy often rewards children who place their lost teeth under their pillow at night. The tooth fairy will visit during the night and place a small gift under your child’s pillow as a reward. If the tooth fairy is willing to visit your child, explain to them about the exciting things they can receive after losing a tooth. Most likely this will put them in a better mood about their recently gapped smile.
How do I help my child practice smiling?
Sometimes all children need is a little confidence boost. Let your child know that even though their smile may have gaps that they are still beautiful and one-of-a-kind. Take some time to practice smiling with them in the mirror. Once they start practicing, they’ll see that it doesn’t look so bad after all, and perhaps even flaunt their new smile more than before.
Related Post: When Should I Take My Child To A Pediatric Dentist?
Should I make an appointment with my child's dentist when baby teeth fall out?
All children lose their teeth, but if they happen to lose a permanent tooth, call Parkcrest Dental. Making appointments every six months with a pediatric dentist will make sure your child’s smile is healthy and progressing as it should.
