If you’re a parent, you’ve probably wondered, “What happens if you swallow a tooth?” It’s a common worry, especially when those wiggly baby teeth start making their exit.
The good news is that swallowing a tooth is usually harmless. But it’s still smart to know what to expect, whether it’s a baby tooth or a permanent one, and when you might need to call your doctor.
This article explains what happens when you swallow a tooth and what you should do to care for yourself or your child.
Swallowing a Baby Tooth: What Usually Happens
Swallowing a baby tooth is surprisingly common, especially in young kids. Those little teeth are pretty small, and if they’re swallowed, they generally don’t cause any harm.
So, what happens to that tooth? Well, it takes a trip through the digestive system. It goes down the esophagus, into the stomach, and then on through the intestines. For the most part, it passes through without causing any problems.
If your child swallows a tooth, don’t panic. It’s usually not a cause for alarm. Baby teeth are made of calcium and other minerals. Your stomach acids will likely break it down, and whatever’s left will simply exit the body as waste.
Swallowing a Permanent Tooth
Swallowing a permanent tooth is less common than swallowing a baby tooth, and it can be a little more concerning.
Permanent teeth are larger, and they may have sharper edges that could irritate your digestive tract on the way down. If you swallowed a permanent tooth, monitor yourself for pain.
Also, consider why the tooth came out in the first place. If you lost it because of an injury, you might have other injuries that need attention. In that case, you may need to see a doctor.
They may want to take an X-ray to make sure you actually swallowed the tooth and didn’t aspirate it into your lungs.
When to Be Concerned and Seek Medical Advice
Usually, swallowing a tooth isn’t a big deal, but there are situations where you should seek medical help.
Recognizing Symptoms of a Problem
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, contact a healthcare provider:
- Persistent stomach pain
- Vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing
- Blood in stool or vomit
- Chest or neck pain
- Fever
These symptoms aren’t always present, but it’s important to take them seriously if they do arise after swallowing a tooth.
When to Contact a Pediatric Dentist or Doctor
If a child swallows a permanent tooth, especially after some sort of trauma, it’s important to contact a pediatric dentist right away.
It’s also a good idea to schedule a follow-up appointment if the tooth was lost due to an injury or decay.
And, of course, if there’s pain, bleeding, or visible injury to the gums, it’s best to seek professional medical advice.
If you’re experiencing extreme symptoms, call 911.
Tips for parents: How to keep your kid from swallowing a tooth
Young kids are prone to accidents. Here are some ways to prevent tooth swallowing:
- Teach your kids what it means to have a wiggly tooth and why they shouldn’t swallow it.
- Remind them to be careful when eating, especially if they have loose teeth.
- Tell them to let you know when they have a loose tooth.
- If a tooth is especially stubborn, talk to a pediatric dentist. They may be able to remove it safely in their office.
The Bottom Line
Swallowing a baby tooth is generally nothing to worry about, but swallowing a permanent tooth requires more care.
Pay attention to your child’s dental health, and don’t hesitate to ask a dentist or other healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns.
Parents can play an active role in preventing tooth swallowing by teaching their children about dental health and scheduling regular dental checkups. With a little effort, you can keep your child’s smile — and digestive system — healthy and happy.