How to Loosen a Tooth at Home

Children begin to lose their baby teeth around age 6 or 7 -- although it can vary. Over time the roots of baby teeth gradually dissolve, and the tooth is superficially held in place by a dwindling attachment to the gums. As permanent teeth begin to come in, the baby teeth can be pushed out of the way. Loose baby teeth can be safely removed at home, in most cases.

Instructions

• 1

  Encourage your child to wiggle the tooth. Teeth loosen gradually, and trying to pull a tooth prematurely can be painful. For this reason, parents should not attempt to pull the tooth for the child in most situations, as unexpected pain and bleeding can occur. The child should be instructed to push the tooth around in his mouth using his tongue or finger, which will gradually cause the gums to detach from the loose tooth.

• 2

  Hold gauze to the gums, if bleeding occurs after a baby tooth is removed. Apply pressure to the area so that the blood can clot. If your child experiences pain, you can use a children's over-the-counter oral anesthetic to temporarily deaden the area. Any time there is an open would in the mouth, there is always the possibility of bacteria getting in and creating infection. Have your child gargle with anti-bacterial mouthwash to reduce this risk.

• 3

  Consult a dentist, if the partially loose tooth is painful or takes longer than a few months to come out. In some situations, the partially exposed underside of the tooth can be sharp, which can be uncomfortable. Dentists can remove problem baby teeth in a quick, sanitary, painless manner.