Losing a tooth. It’s a fun time to embrace the magic of childhood and of course—the Tooth Fairy herself. But when your child has a wiggly tooth, you might wonder: Is it okay to pull it out, or should we let nature take its course?
The short answer? It depends.
If the tooth is barely hanging on—meaning it’s dangling, twisting easily, and your child can painlessly push it with their tongue—it’s usually fine to give it a gentle tug. Just make sure your child is comfortable with it, and always wash your hands first. If there’s resistance, it’s best to wait. Forcing a tooth out too soon can cause unnecessary pain, bleeding, and even a higher risk of infection.
Encourage your child to wiggle it naturally with their tongue or clean fingers. Crunchy snacks like apples or carrots can also help loosen it. But if a tooth seems stuck for too long or your child complains of pain or swelling, a dentist visit might be a good idea.
Losing baby teeth is a big milestone, and making it fun—whether with a visit from the Tooth Fairy or a special keepsake box—helps kids embrace the process with excitement rather than fear. So, celebrate this special day and those tiny pearly whites, but when it comes to pulling, patience is often the best approach!