Smiles in Progress

Baby teeth matter. Though temporary, primary teeth perform essential roles in nutrition, speech, facial growth, and guiding permanent teeth into the correct positions. At The Loose Tooth Pediatric Dentistry , we recommend a gentle, evidence-based approach to caring for baby teeth because prevention and minimal trauma produce the best long-term outcomes for a child’s oral and overall development. Baby teeth are more important than parents often realize Primary teeth maintain space for permanent successors, help children chew and speak, and support normal jaw development. Early decay or loss can cause: Space loss and subsequent crowding of permanent teeth Speech development delays or impediments Nutritional compromises if chewing is painful Increased risk of infection that can affect developing permanent tooth germs Gentle care protects these functions and reduces the need for complex future treatment. Gentle care minimizes pain, anxiety, and dental trauma Children are ...

A loose tooth is a major milestone in your child’s development—exciting, emotional, and sometimes a little nerve-wracking for parents. At The Loose Tooth Pediatric Dentistry , we guide families through this transition with clarity, reassurance, and evidence-based dental care. Understanding how to support your child during this phase protects their oral health, prevents discomfort, and helps build lifelong confidence in dental hygiene. As a pediatric dentist , my goal is to ensure every parent knows exactly what to do, what to avoid, and when to call us for professional help. Encourage Gentle Wiggling—Never Force It Baby teeth naturally loosen as permanent teeth push upward. To protect your child’s gums and underlying adult teeth: Let your child gently wiggle the tooth with clean hands or their tongue. Avoid pulling, twisting, or tying strings to doors—these “quick fixes” can tear gum tissue and cause unnecessary pain or infection. If the tooth is not ready , your child will...

When a child’s tooth becomes loose, it’s an exciting milestone—but it can also raise questions about safety, timing, and comfort. At The Loose Tooth Pediatric Dentistry , our priority is to guide families through this stage with clarity, confidence, and gentle professionalism. Understanding when a baby tooth is ready to come out—and how to remove it safely—helps protect your child’s developing smile and ensures their experience stays positive. Below, I outline how we explain safe tooth removal to kids and caregivers, and why this approach matters for long-term child oral health . Teaching Kids What “Ready to Come Out” Really Means Children often wiggle their teeth before they’re truly ready, which can cause discomfort or unnecessary bleeding. I explain readiness in a simple, engaging, age-appropriate way: The tooth should move freely in all directions There should be no sharp pain when wiggling The gum tissue should look healthy without swelling The child should feel lik...