The tooth is loose, and your child is anxiously waiting for the Tooth Fairy. How can you get that tooth pulled in a way that will actually work? Here are 10 ideas to try:

1. Go to the Dentist: This might seem obvious, since a dentist takes care of teeth, but if your child is experiencing undo pain with the loose tooth, there is excessive swelling or redness, indicating infection, it is a good idea to consult your dentist for more advice, or to have it pulled. The dentist knows how to get this job done!
2. Try the old “string on the tooth, close the door” trick: When implementing this method, be sure to have the “string” tied securely to both the tooth and the doorknob so that it doesn’t just slip off when the door is shut. Also, use dental floss rather than string- it’s thinner and will tie around the tooth easier causing less pain.
3. Wiggle the tooth: Wiggling the tooth back and forth, gently at first then more forcefully with your (clean) fingers, will eventually loosen the fibers holding it in place so it can be pulled out.
4. Twist the tooth: similar to wiggling but instead of wiggling it back and forth, wind the tooth around, first one way, then the other. This will also help to loosen and break down fibers.
5. Eat hard foods: Crispy, crunchy foods, like an apple, will put extra pressure on the tooth and help loosen it.  This method works best for front teeth.
6. Eat sticky foods: Sometimes a loose tooth will be pulled out almost effortlessly and with little pain when it gets stuck in a caramel or a piece of sugarless bubble gum. Just be sure to stop chewing before breaking other teeth on the hard surface of the tooth that just fell out!
7. A dry rag: Grip the tooth with a dry rag after thoroughly drying the tooth. Part of the problem with pulling teeth is that they are wet and slippery. Using a dry rag gives a good gripping surface, and then just pull!
8. Let the child show-off: For a top tooth- have your child show you how the tooth wiggles. Then, while she has a hold of the tooth, gently tap the top of her hand; you will both be impressed to see that tooth pop out of her mouth. You might have to look for it on the floor after she drops it in surprise.
9. Let the child pull it out: Encourage your child to wiggle and twist his tooth. When it’s ready, it will come out during one of those wiggle sessions, and your child can be proud of his accomplishment!
10. Let nature take its course: Probably, the most frustrating way to get that loose tooth out is just to wait. It will fall out by itself.

In all cases, before pulling, the tooth must be ready to come out. Trying to pull a tooth too soon will cause your child pain and possibly infection. Also, be ready with cotton balls or tissue to staunch any blood flow that might come from a hole in the gum line. Then, you can help your child tuck the tooth safely under a pillow and wait for the Tooth Fairy.