If you need to schedule a kids’ tooth extraction with our team, please get in touch with our front office. We would be happy to assess your child’s smile to determine if a gentle dental extraction procedure is what they need to smile big again!
Why would a baby tooth need to be extracted?
One of the common reasons a baby tooth may need to be extracted is if it is blocking an adult tooth from growing in. If a baby tooth has been damaged by tooth decay, dental trauma, or infection, it may need to be removed so that it doesn’t cause damage to other teeth or gums, especially the adult tooth that is located directly underneath it. If a tooth is crowding the other teeth and causing alignment issues, our team may decide that it needs to be extracted to protect the other teeth or to complete your child’s orthodontic treatment plan. If a dental extraction has been recommended for your child, it’s likely their best treatment option.
Do dental extractions hurt?
Your child may be very apprehensive about their upcoming dental extraction procedure, but you can assure them that the extraction itself won’t be painful. We always begin by applying a local anesthetic to the gums near the tooth that is being extracted, so the patient only feels a little pressure, but no pain. The anesthetic will wear off a few hours after their appointment, so we recommend having some pain relievers and an ice pack or two on hand to ensure that they don’t feel any pain in the days after their appointment. We also offer dental sedation to help keep kids stay calm and relaxed during their treatments.
What is aftercare like for a pediatric dental extraction?
We always recommend that patients take at least two or three days off from school, work, and extracurriculars to give themselves time to rest and heal. Too much activity after a dental extraction can disrupt the healing process and cause avoidable complications. Your child will likely feel a little worn out after their appointment, so we recommend propping their head up on a few pillows, giving them an ice pack, and have them do a calm activity, like watching a movie. Once the numbness has worn off, they can eat soft foods like pudding, applesauce, and yogurt, but they should not drink anything through a straw, as that can cause a dry socket.
