It's a common scenario: a child excitedly wiggles a loose tooth, and in the midst of laughter or a meal, the tooth accidentally gets swallowed. Naturally, this can cause concern for parents. So, what happens if a kid swallows a tooth? Is it dangerous, and what steps should you take? This guide provides key insights on how to handle the situation calmly and effectively.

Is Swallowing a Tooth Dangerous?

In most cases, swallowing a tooth is not dangerous. Teeth are small, smooth, and typically pass through the digestive system without causing harm, usually exiting within 24 to 48 hours in the child’s stool. The digestive tract is designed to process small, hard objects, including teeth, and they usually move through without trouble.

Although the risk of complications is rare, it's important to understand when medical attention is needed.

What Happens If You Swallow a Tooth in Your Sleep?

If a child swallows a tooth during sleep, it’s often because the tooth was already loose and became dislodged while they were resting. The body generally handles this well, and the tooth will pass through the digestive system like any other object. If your child wakes up missing a tooth or thinks they swallowed it, there's rarely a need to worry.

Can You Die From Swallowing a Tooth?

While it’s unsettling to think about, the risk of severe complications or death from swallowing a tooth is extremely low. The primary concern arises if the tooth enters the tracheobronchial tree (airway) instead of the digestive tract, which could cause respiratory issues. If this happens, immediate medical attention is necessary. However, when swallowed and passed through the digestive tract, teeth are unlikely to cause internal damage.

My 6 year old Swallowed Baby Tooth. What should I do? 

If your child swallows a tooth, stay calm and follow these steps:

• Check for Breathing or Choking: Ensure your child is breathing normally and not showing signs of choking. If your child seems to have something stuck in their throat, encourage them to keep coughing to help dislodge it. Do not give them anything to eat or drink until the situation is under control.
• Monitor for Discomfort: Keep an eye out for any signs of abdominal pain, vomiting, or trouble swallowing. These are rare symptoms but may indicate an issue. 
• Encourage Hydration: Make sure your child drinks plenty of water, which can help move the tooth through the digestive system more quickly.
• Check the Stool: Within 24 to 48 hours, the tooth should appear in your child’s stool. If it does, no further action is needed. If you’re still concerned, then it’s best to visit an expert. 

When to Seek Medical Attention?

While most cases resolve without intervention, there are times when medical care is needed:

• Trouble Swallowing or Severe Abdominal Pain: If your child experiences difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain, or vomiting, consult a doctor. This could indicate that the tooth is causing a blockage or irritation.
• If the Tooth Doesn’t Pass: If the tooth hasn’t appeared in your child’s stool after a few days, consult a doctor to ensure it isn’t stuck in the digestive system.
• Persistent Vomiting or Respiratory Distress: These symptoms could indicate that the tooth has entered the airway, which is a medical emergency.
• Chest Pain or Discomfort: If your child complains of chest pain, this could mean the tooth is causing irritation in the esophagus.

How to Prevent Swallowing a Tooth?

Though swallowing a tooth is usually harmless, here are some tips to minimize the chances of it happening:

• Supervise Loose Teeth: Encourage your child to gently wiggle loose teeth and avoid eating tough or chewy foods until the tooth comes out on its own.
• Encourage Careful Play: Remind your child not to play with their loose tooth excessively, especially during mealtime or while playing sports.

Educating children on how to handle their loose teeth carefully can help prevent accidental swallowing. Additionally, when a tooth feels very loose, having it removed sooner may prevent unnecessary mishaps.

Rana Dentistry is Here for YOU! 

Swallowing a tooth is rarely a cause for concern, but knowing when to act can give you peace of mind. By staying informed and taking preventive steps, you can ensure your child handles loose teeth safely. If you have any concerns, Rana Dentistry is here to help. 

We are dedicated to your family’s health and well-being. If you have any concerns or need expert guidance, our team is here to support you. Contact us today to speak with one of our healthcare professionals or schedule an appointment. Let us help you navigate your child’s health with confidence.