Discovering a child has swallowed a loose tooth is a common, often startling, scenario. However, it is generally not a cause for serious concern. In most instances, the tooth passes through the body without issue.
The Tooth’s Journey Through the Body
When a child swallows a tooth, it follows the normal path of food through the digestive system. The tooth first travels down the esophagus, a muscular tube connecting the throat to the stomach. From there, it enters the stomach, where stomach acids break down organic material attached to the tooth, although the tooth itself is primarily composed of hard, inorganic minerals.
Baby teeth are small, smooth, and lack sharp edges, making them well-suited for passage. The main components of a tooth are enamel, dentin, and pulp. Enamel, the outermost layer, is the hardest substance in the human body, providing a protective shield for the tooth. Dentin lies beneath the enamel, forming the bulk of the tooth structure, while the pulp, located at the tooth’s core, contains nerves and blood vessels.
The tooth then moves from the stomach into the small intestine, where most nutrient absorption occurs. It continues its journey through the large intestine, where water is absorbed and waste eliminated. The small size and smooth shape of a baby tooth allow it to navigate these pathways without causing damage.
Most swallowed baby teeth pass through the body within 3 to 7 days. Parents often do not notice when the tooth is expelled, as it happens without symptoms. The body does not digest the tooth’s hard mineral structure, but its small size allows it to pass efficiently through the gastrointestinal tract.
When to Consult a Doctor
While swallowing a tooth is usually harmless, medical attention is sometimes necessary. A primary concern is the tooth entering the airway instead of the digestive tract, known as aspiration. This is a medical emergency that can cause difficulty breathing.
Parents should watch for signs such as persistent coughing, gagging, wheezing, or trouble breathing immediately after the tooth is swallowed. If these symptoms appear, seek prompt medical evaluation. Other indicators include persistent stomach pain, recurring vomiting, or blood in the stool or vomit.
Difficulty swallowing, neck pain, chest pain, or fever after the incident are also signs that require medical advice. These symptoms could suggest the tooth is lodged or causing irritation somewhere in the digestive tract. Though complications are uncommon, monitoring your child for any unusual or concerning symptoms in the days following a swallowed tooth can provide reassurance or indicate the need for professional guidance.