When children start losing their baby teeth, their gums may start to bleed as the new tooth pushes out the old. This is a natural occurrence, however, excessive bleeding because of a loose tooth could point to gum disease or trauma to the gums and teeth.
There are solutions to bleeding gums because of loose teeth. These depend on the cause, and it’s exactly that which we’ll be delving into here. Brisbane Paediatric Dentist has put together this guide for parents with loose tooth bleeding in kids, together with causes and solutions.
The phase of losing teeth lasts for about 6 years in children. It’s an exciting time for them and you, but sometimes it can also be painful. If gums begin to bleed all the time, it’s best to assess the situation and take action if necessary. Let’s discuss what you need to know about loose tooth bleeding.
Key Takeaways
- Bleeding loose teeth is normal, but excessive bleeding may indicate a more serious problem.
- Regular brushing with a soft bristle toothbrush is a great way to prevent infection in loose teeth.
- Your child should avoid hard candy and sticky sweets while their tooth is loose.
- Applying gauze or rinsing with warm, salty water are two great ways to stop bleeding and prevent infection.
Is it Normal for a Loose Baby Tooth to Bleed?
Yes, some bleeding is normal when a loose baby tooth is on the verge of coming out. The tooth is still partially attached to the gums, so bleeding is perfectly normal. However, if you notice excessive bleeding, you may want to check for gum injury or a lack of oral hygiene.
Gum Injury
Kids will often disregard their loose teeth and eat what they normally do. Ask your child if they’ve eaten any hard or sticky snacks. These can damage the gums, causing wiggly tooth bleeding. Encourage your child to eat soft foods and not to play with the loose tooth too much.
Lack of Oral Hygiene
Gum disease and infection may also be the cause of bleeding gums. Check to make sure that your child is brushing regularly. Purchase a soft-bristle brush while they are losing their baby teeth. This will lightly massage their gums and prevent the tooth from wiggling too much.
Nutrition
In rare cases, nutritional deficiencies can lead to a bleeding loose tooth. Make sure your child is getting a balanced mix of nutritious foods, and try to avoid too many snack foods and sweets.
Blood Clotting Disorder
In even rarer cases, your child may have a blood clotting disorder like haemophilia or thrombocytopenia. If the bleeding is unusually persistent, it may be worth taking them for a test at your nearest doctor.
How Can You Help Stop the Bleeding of Your Child’s Loose Tooth?
You can help stop the bleeding of your child’s loose tooth by applying gauze, rinsing with warm, salty water, or teaching them not to fiddle with the loose tooth. Stopping bleeding gums can also be done by reducing swelling through cold compression or feeding your child soft foods.
| Method | How It Helps | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Apply Gauze | Aids clot formation | Press clean gauze on the area for a few minutes |
| Rinse with Water | Clears blood and debris | Use warm salt water for a gentle rinse |
| Cold Compress | Reduces swelling | Hold a cold pack to the cheek for 10 to 15 minutes |
| Keep Tongue Away | Prevents irritation | Remind your child not to touch the area |
| Soft Foods Only | Prevents further trauma | Give yoghurt or mashed potatoes |
What Should You do if Your Child’s Loose Tooth is Causing Pain?
If your child’s loose tooth is causing pain, you should tell them to wiggle it very gently. This can sometimes relieve the pain. If that fails, rinse the sore area with warm, salty water. If the pain still doesn’t go away, check for infection or visit your nearest paediatric dentist.
What Foods Should My Child Avoid When They Have a Loose Tooth?
Foods your child should avoid when they have a loose tooth include:
| Food Type | Examples | Why to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Crunchy Foods | Popcorn, chips, nuts, raw carrots | Can put pressure on the loose tooth |
| Sticky Foods | Chewing gum, caramel, toffee | May pull the tooth out too soon |
| Hard Foods | Hard candy, pretzels, whole apples | Can cause pain or damage the gum |
| Chewy Foods | Bagels, tough meats, dried fruit | Might tug at the loose tooth |
| Very Hot or Cold Foods | Ice cream, hot soups | Can cause sensitivity |
Should You Pull Out Your Child’s Loose Tooth?
You can pull your child’s loose tooth out, but this may lead to red gums, more bleeding, and a lot of pain. It’s best to let the tooth grow out naturally. Once the tooth is out, the pain should stop. If the pain doesn’t stop, take your child to a dentist.
Brisbane Paediatric Dentist provides you with skilled advice on how to deal with bleeding gums in children when their baby teeth are coming out. Dr Ellie Nadian is great with kids who may be scared of the dentist or feel anxious at the thought of having their teeth checked. Contact us today!
Loose Tooth Bleeding FAQs
What if my child swallows a loose tooth accidentally?
A child swallowing their loose tooth accidentally often happens, and it’s usually harmless. Kids tend to swallow their loose teeth while they sleep, during distracting activities, or during school. It shouldn’t cause any problems with their stomachs or cause any pain.
Is it normal for a permanent tooth to come in before the baby tooth falls out?
Yes, it’s normal for a permanent tooth to come in before the baby tooth falls out. Shark teeth occur when the permanent tooth erupts behind the baby tooth instead of pushing it out from underneath. The baby tooth should fall out on its own, but if it doesn’t, your dentist can pull it out easily.
How can I help my child maintain oral hygiene with a loose tooth?
To help your child maintain good oral hygiene when they have a loose tooth, purchase a soft toothbrush for them and encourage gentle, circular brushing. They should do this twice a day and rinse well afterwards. Also, replace hard or sticky sweets with softer treats like ice cream or custard.
Can a loose tooth lead to infection?
Yes, a loose tooth may lead to infection if regular oral hygiene isn’t practised. Bacteria may sneak into the loose area of the tooth and lead to swelling, redness, or bleeding of the gums. If you notice any of these signs, take your child to see a dentist.
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