What Happens If a Kid Swallows a Tooth? Safety Tips Every Parent Should Know
Last week at a birthday party in Kahului, a mom shared how her 6-year-old laughed so hard during a game that his wiggly tooth popped out and he swallowed it before anyone noticed. At first, panic set in. Then came the big question: What happens if a kid swallows a tooth?
If you’re a parent, this story probably feels all too real. Kids lose baby teeth between ages 5 and 7, and sometimes the excitement (or even a late-night snack) leads to a swallowed tooth. According to the experts, most swallowed teeth pass safely through the digestive system in 24–48 hours. Still, knowing what’s normal and when to worry can ease a lot of stress.
Is Swallowing a Tooth Dangerous?
Most of the time, no. A child’s tooth is small and smooth, which makes it easy for the digestive tract to handle. The tooth will usually pass naturally.
But it’s important to watch for red flags. If your child has chest pain, stomach pain, difficulty breathing, or ongoing coughing, seek medical care right away. Rarely, a swallowed tooth can lodge in the airway instead of the stomach.
If You Swallow Your Tooth, Will You Poop It Out?
Yes, and it sounds funny, but that’s the most common outcome. The digestive system treats a swallowed baby tooth like any other small object. Within a day or two, it usually comes out naturally, no harm done.
What if a Child swallowed a Tooth in sleep?
Sometimes kids lose teeth in their sleep. If a child swallows a tooth in sleep, don’t panic. As long as your child is breathing fine, the tooth most likely went down the esophagus, not the airway. Keep an eye on them and call your dentist if you’re unsure.
What Should I Do if My Child Swallows a Tooth?
- Stay calm and reassure your child.
- Offer water to help wash it down.
- Watch closely for symptoms like coughing, gagging, chest pain, or abdominal pain.
- Call your pediatric dentist if you’re concerned.
- In rare cases, a doctor may recommend an X-ray to confirm the tooth is moving safely.
Tooth Fairy Dilemmas
Q: My tooth broke and I swallowed it. Should I worry?
A: If the piece is small, it should pass safely. Larger or sharp pieces may need medical attention.
Q: What happens if you swallow a tooth in your sleep?
A: Most teeth enter the stomach, not the lungs. Still, see a doctor if your child shows breathing issues.
Q: Kid swallowed tooth, does the Tooth Fairy still come?
A: Absolutely! Parents in Kahului often suggest leaving a note or drawing for the Tooth Fairy instead.
A Tooth Gone Missing, But No Harm Done
A swallowed tooth might feel scary at the moment, but for most kids it’s harmless. The key is knowing the signs of trouble and having a trusted pediatric dentist in Kahului you can call for peace of mind.
At Island Smiles Dental, we’ve helped many local families through moments just like this. Whether it’s routine care, emergencies, or easing a worried child’s fears, we’re here for you.
If your child accidentally swallows a tooth—or if you’re simply looking for a caring pediatric dentist in Kahului, HI - book an appointment today.
We’ll treat your family like ours.
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