Extractions

What is tooth extraction?

Tooth extraction is the complete removal of a tooth from its socket. In pediatric dentistry, tooth extraction is typically only performed if your child’s tooth is damaged or decayed beyond repair.

Why would my child need a tooth extraction?

There are a number of reasons the My Kidz Dentist team may recommend a tooth extraction for your child, such as:

• Extreme tooth decay that cannot be reversed with alternative dental treatments
• Trauma or injury
• Baby teeth that have remained in the mouth for too long, leading to overcrowding
• Preparing for an orthodontic procedure

An overcrowded mouth makes it difficult for your child’s permanent teeth to grow in properly. To prevent overcrowding, and serious orthodontic treatment down the road, a tooth extraction can help give your child’s new teeth room to grow.

How is a tooth extraction done?

In most cases, your child’s My Kidz Dentist professional starts by numbing the affected tooth to minimize pain and discomfort. A dental instrument called an elevator is then used to loosen the tooth as much as possible. Finally, the dentist fully extracts the affected tooth with forceps, pulling it out of the socket completely.

If your child is too scared to sit through the tooth extraction visit, there’s no need to worry. My Kidz Dentist offers dental sedation options to help your child relax and unwind during the quick procedure.

What happens after my child’s tooth extraction?

The My Kidz Dentist team wants to make sure your child’s tooth extraction is as quick and painless as possible. While you can expect minor bleeding following the procedure, regularly changing the gauze provided by your child’s dentist every 20 minutes helps staunch the bleeding.

To decrease swelling and gum inflammation, ice the affected area for approximately 20 minutes at a time until it subsides. If your child experiences pain and discomfort, make sure to talk to a My Kidz Dentist professional about any suitable over-the-counter pain medications. For the first day or two following the procedure, make sure your child sticks to soft foods and avoids sucking on a straw to speed up the healing process and prevent further bleeding.

The My Kidz Dentist team understands that tooth extractions may seem scary and painful to children, which is why they have made it their mission to cultivate a friendly, comfortable environment. To learn more about the tooth extraction process, call My Kidz Dentist or book an appointment online today.