Losing a milk tooth is one of the most memorable events in a child's life. A rather exciting event where the child gets to experience the first set of changes in a plethora that starts as a child grows up. While it might be exciting for a few, the others not so much. Hence it becomes highly challenging for a parent or guardian to help the child navigate the situation and to help the child be at ease with the process. 

The sequence of shedding 

The sequence by which the milk teeth sheds is the same as the eruption sequence. The front tooth would be lost at first, followed by the teeth adjacent to it on both sides and so on until the molars are lost at the end. 

The first to shed are central incisors at six to seven years. Lateral incisors follow this, shed at seven to eight. By the age of nine to twelve, the remaining teeth also shed off, and the permanent ones take their place. 

The big change 

As the child's teeth fall off, gentle care and a change of habits are needed. With the loss of a front tooth, biting becomes difficult. With the shedding of front teeth, the child might feel low because of a sudden change in appearance. 

Ensuring good oral hygiene also becomes difficult as the mucosa becomes sensitive. However, tackling all these issues can be easy if you know where to start. 

Things you need to do

Here are a few things that you need to consider when your children start shedding their milk teeth.

Instil self-confidence

Try to make your children understand that it is a natural phenomenon and is only temporary. Remove the fear of loose teeth by asking them to gently pull on the tooth or wiggle it with the tongue to get rid of it. 

Encourage good oral hygiene habits

Make sure they practice optimum oral hygiene. Make sure they rinse the mouth after every meal so that the stuck food in the empty socket is rinsed off immediately. Proper brushing and flossing will further remove any debris stuck in the sockets.

Discourage frequent sugar intake

Diet can also play a role in healthy teeth. In particular, minimise your child's contact with high-sugar and sticky sweets and other carbohydrates. Cut back on snacking on sweets between meals, when these foods are more likely to linger in the mouth without brushing.

Consult your dentist regularly

A dentist can help the child know the entire teeth shedding process and make the child feel confident. The dentist can also help them understand the difference between their newer and older teeth and can answer any question the child might have. 

While the permanent set of teeth is here to stay, make sure to consult the dentist for measures to prevent cavities. Sealants are one way to protect the tooth from carries. It acts as a protective covering over the enamel, preventing plaque from accumulating on the surface. With sealants, the incidence of cavities can be reduced to 90 per cent.