What Happens When You Swallow a Tooth?

Most likely, nothing out of the ordinary will happen if you swallow a tooth. It's a fairly common occurrence, particularly with children losing baby teeth.

What to Expect After Swallowing a Tooth

Here's a breakdown of what typically occurs:

• You might not even notice: Often, swallowing a tooth is so unremarkable that you won't realize it happened. This is especially true for small teeth or if you were eating when it happened.
• Natural Passage: The tooth will pass through your digestive system without causing any harm.
• Timing: It usually takes between 24 to 48 hours for the tooth to leave your body through your stool.
• No Digestion: Your stomach acids and digestive enzymes are not designed to break down hard substances like teeth; thus, the tooth will pass through relatively unchanged.

Why Swallowing a Tooth Isn't a Problem

• Size: Teeth, especially baby teeth, are quite small. They pose little risk of causing a blockage in the digestive tract.
• Smooth Edges: Unlike bones or other sharp objects, teeth are relatively smooth, minimizing the risk of damage during passage.
• Digestive Tract: The human digestive system is designed to process and eliminate various indigestible materials, including small hard objects.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While swallowing a tooth is usually harmless, there are rare instances where medical attention might be needed. If you experience any of the following symptoms after swallowing a tooth, consult a doctor:

• Severe Abdominal Pain: Persistent or worsening pain could signal a problem.
• Vomiting: Repeated or severe vomiting should be evaluated.
• Blood in Stool: If you notice blood in your stool, it could indicate an issue.
• Difficulty Swallowing: If you experience an ongoing inability to swallow after the event, a medical professional should assess you.