EXTRACTIONS

Finding out that your child needs to have a tooth extracted can be scary and stressful. Both parent and child are wondering what to expect, and both need to be prepared for the experience.

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Dr. Dutta will talk with both you and your child to ensure you both understand what the procedure entails. He is an expert at communicating with children about dental procedures to help keep them calm. He will explain the process in terms he or she can understand.

 

Your child’s comfort is important to us, and we will keep that in mind before, during, and after the extraction process.

 

Reasons Your Child Might Need a Tooth Extracted

 

Like most dentists, Dr. Dutta sees extraction as a last resort, but in some cases it is necessary. Sometimes children need to have a tooth extracted because it has decayed so badly it cannot be saved. A tooth that is badly fractured might also need to be extracted.

 

Children who are undergoing orthodontic treatment might also need to have teeth removed to allow space for other teeth to move into proper position.

 

Whatever the reason, Dr. Dutta will make sure you are comfortable with the recommendation before proceeding.

 

What to Expect with the Extraction Procedure

 

The procedure itself will be dictated by your child’s situation and the type of extraction that is needed. If the tooth is not impacted and looks to be easy to remove, Dr. Dutta will simply numb the area with a local anesthetic, gently wiggle the tooth to loosen it from its surrounding structures, and then remove the tooth with forceps.

 

A tooth that is impacted involves a more complex process. It is likely some of the gum tissue will have to be moved out of the way so the tooth is visible. Because this process will take longer and is more complicated, your child may be given nitrous oxide or some other sedation before the procedure begins. The area will be numbed and the procedure will be relatively painless for your child.

 

How to Care for Your Child after the Extraction

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Once the extraction is completed, Dr. Dutta will have your child bite down on a piece of gauze until all bleeding has stopped.
After you take your child home, follow these recommendations to keep him or her healing and happy:

  • Use an ice pack for swollen areas on the cheek for 20 minutes at a time.
  • Over-the-counter pain reliever will help with any post-procedure soreness.
  • Don’t let your child drink from a straw as this could dislodge the blood clot that has formed at the extraction site.
  • For the first 24 hours afterward, serve soft foods only.

Your child can brush and floss after the procedure, but he or she should do so carefully until the site is fully healed. Avoid brushing the extraction site directly.
Call us immediately if your child has a fever or chills or if there is increased swelling or pain.

For Dental Extractions, Call World Pediatric Dental

 

When your child needs an extraction, you want the gentle touch and experience of a trained pediatric dentist. Give us a call today.

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