"Everything you need to know about your child’s first lost teeth, and how to make it magical"

At Kiwi Dental, we love helping little smiles grow healthy, strong, and confident. One of the most exciting milestones in your child’s dental journey is losing their very first tooth. For many families, this moment comes with a sprinkle of magic, thanks to the beloved Tooth Fairy tradition.

Whether you’re preparing for that first wiggly tooth or already playing the role of Tooth Fairy, this guide will walk you through what to expect, how to handle loose teeth, and how to make the experience fun and meaningful for your child.

Most children lose their first baby tooth around age six, though it can happen a little earlier or later depending on the child. The first teeth to fall out are usually the central incisors, those tiny front teeth on the top and bottom.

It’s important to remember that every child develops at their own pace. Some kids may start losing teeth at age five, while others might not begin until age seven, and both are perfectly normal.

As adult teeth begin to come in, you may notice gaps, new spacing, and even slightly crooked teeth. Don’t worry, this is all part of the natural development process!

If there’s one thing we know for sure it’s that kids love wiggling loose teeth! The moment they feel that first wiggle, they’ll likely be eager to show you (and anyone else nearby!).

While it might be tempting to step in and “help” remove the tooth, it’s best to let nature take its course.

Here’s what we recommend:

• Encourage your child to gently wiggle the tooth using a clean finger or tissue
• Avoid pulling or forcing the tooth out too early
• Remind them that patience helps prevent pain and bleeding

Pulling a tooth before it’s ready can cause discomfort and may irritate sensitive gum tissue. If a tooth seems loose for an unusually long time and just won’t come out, our dental team is always here to help guide you safely.

Ah, the big question every parent wonders!

While stories of $20 bills under pillows do exist, the typical Tooth Fairy “rate” is much more modest. Most families give between $1 and $5 per tooth, and the amount can vary based on your family’s traditions.

A fun tip from our team:

Use the Tooth Fairy as a way to encourage good oral hygiene!
You can tell your child that:

“The Tooth Fairy gives extra rewards for clean, healthy teeth!”

This small idea can go a long way in motivating kids to brush and floss regularly.

The Tooth Fairy tradition is a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories for your child. Here are a few simple ways to make it extra special:

• Leave a tiny note from the Tooth Fairy
• Sprinkle a little glitter near their pillow
• Use a special “tooth container” instead of placing it directly under the pillow
• Keep a “lost tooth journal” to track each milestone

These little touches can turn a simple moment into something your child will remember for years to come.

While losing baby teeth is a natural process, there are a few situations where you may want to check in with your dentist:

• A baby tooth falls out too early due to injury or decay
• Adult teeth begin coming in before baby teeth fall out
• Your child experiences significant pain or swelling
• A tooth remains extremely loose for a long period without falling out

If you ever feel unsure, it’s always best to seek professional advice for peace of mind.

At Kiwi Dental, we’re proud to support families through every stage of their oral health journey, from first teeth to lifelong smiles. If you have questions about your child’s dental development or want tips on building healthy habits at home, our friendly team is always here to help.

Ready to book your child’s next visit?
Give us a call or use our online contact form; we’d love to welcome you!