Is there anything we need to do to prepare for our son losing his baby teeth? he just turned five, and i guess the time is not too far away. i remember when i was little i was scared of having them pulled, and would let them stay in my mouth far too long.

Does : Does your son see the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings? If so, he already has an excellent relationship and should not feel anxious going to the dentist's office. It is so early to know whether or not his baby teeth will exfoliate on their own or need to be extracted to make room for his permanent teeth. The last thing you want to do is scare him, and starting to talk about it from now could only make him fearful. Many dentists will use nitrous oxide (laughing gas) which kids love. If he is that apprehensive at the time he needs the extractions, that may be a route to take. Again, make sure he has a good, established relationship with a dentist. It will make things easier for you and him in the long run. Hope this info helps.

Most : Most primary ("baby") teeth will loosen and fall out on their own and will not need to be removed by the dentist or pediatric dentist. There is no need to worry the child (and that includes relating your past or present fears with anything dental). If you have a good dentist or pediatric dentist and a supportive staff (within their office) your child will have positive experiences. In the unlikely event that a tooth or teeth have to be removed your child will have a high comfort level with all of those treating him. That will enable him to be an amazingly brave and stoic patient. Losing teeth is a rite of passage (its just gotten more expensive for the tooth fairy). This is a case of the less said, the better.

Kids : Kids are familiar with growing out of their shoes and their clothes and putting them aside to make room for bigger ones. It shoud be easy for your child to understand that he is outgrowing his baby teeth and that they should be put aside to make room for the bigger, more grown up ones. The tooth fairy thing makes it more fun and something to look forward to. Check the children's section at your local library or book store for one of the many excellent books on the subject geared for 5 year olds.