A tooth extraction is a process where we remove a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. It seems like a scary or painful procedure. However, we may need to perform an extraction for pain relief or to protect oral health. Even children may need a tooth extraction under certain circumstances. At SmileCity Pediatric Dentistry, we make sure that your child is safe and comfortable during their tooth extraction.
We also provide wisdom teeth extractions as a pediatric dentistry service to children in Leesburg, Virginia.
Reasons for Tooth Extraction in Children
Although it may seem like a rare issue, we do have to remove teeth for kids. Several factors may create the need for tooth extraction in children.
Tooth decay can cause a lot of damage to a tooth if left untreated. In cases with extensive decay, we may not be able to repair the tooth with a filling. As a result, we may need to extract the tooth to prevent the spread of infection.
Sometimes, a tooth may become impacted. This means that a tooth cannot fully emerge from underneath the gum tissue. Impacted teeth commonly occur with wisdom teeth. However, they can also affect other permanent teeth. We may recommend extraction if the tooth causes pain, infection, or crowding.
In some cases, a child’s mouth may not have enough space to accommodate all of their permanent teeth. Overcrowding can lead to misalignment, bite problems, and difficulty maintaining proper oral hygiene. In such cases, extraction of one or more teeth may be necessary to create space. It can also prevent future complications.
Tooth extraction may be part of a comprehensive orthodontic treatment plan to address issues such as crowding and spacing. We may need to strategically remove certain teeth to help your alignment journey. This process can help achieve better alignment and improve the function of the smile.
Some children are prone to accidents. Accidents or injuries to the mouth can result in fractured, broken, or knocked-out teeth. In some cases, the damage may be too severe to repair. As a result, extraction may be the best course of action to preserve oral health.
The Tooth Extraction Process for Children
While the thought of tooth extraction may be scary, the procedure is typically straightforward. We perform the procedure under local anesthesia to make sure your child is comfortable.
Before the extraction, Dr. Mark or Dr. SK will review the child’s medical history and may take X-rays. This helps us get a better picture of the tooth’s position, roots, and surrounding structures. Then, we will use local anesthesia to numb the tooth. We don’t want your child to feel any pain during the extraction.
Using specialized instruments, Dr. Mark or Dr. SK will gently loosen the tooth from its socket and remove it from the mouth. In some cases, we may need to section the tooth into smaller pieces for easier removal.
After the extraction, our team will provide instructions for post-operative care, including guidelines for pain, oral hygiene, and dietary restrictions. Your child may have some mild discomfort and swelling following the procedure. However, we can manage this pain with medication and ice packs.
You will need to bring your child to a follow-up appointment to make sure they are healing properly. We also want to check for any complications. In some cases, one of the dentists may suggest further treatments. If your child needs to replace the tooth, we have options for them. Sometimes, this helps restore the function and look of their smiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a tooth extraction affect how my child’s permanent teeth grow in?
Yes, especially if the baby tooth is removed too early. Premature loss can cause nearby teeth to shift, which might block the space needed for the permanent tooth to come in properly. Dentists may recommend a space maintainer to guide proper eruption if needed.
What are dry sockets, and can they occur in children?
A dry socket happens when the blood clot at the extraction site gets dislodged or doesn’t form. While it’s more common in adults, it can still happen in children, especially if they rinse too vigorously or use straws shortly after the procedure. Pain, bad breath, and delayed healing are key signs to watch for.
How long does it take for the extraction site to heal?
Most children heal quickly, typically within one to two weeks. Initial discomfort and swelling usually subside after a few days. Full gum tissue closure can take slightly longer, depending on the location of the tooth and your child’s overall health.
Are stitches needed after a child’s tooth extraction?
Not always. Stitches are usually only needed if the tooth was impacted or if extra gum tissue needs to be closed for proper healing. If used, they’re often dissolvable and fall out on their own within a few days.
Should I be concerned if there’s bleeding after the extraction?
Mild bleeding is normal for the first few hours. If bleeding continues beyond that or seems heavy, apply gentle pressure with clean gauze and contact your child’s dentist. Avoid giving your child hot foods, straws, or spitting, as those can worsen the bleeding.
How soon can my child brush their teeth after the extraction?
They can resume gentle brushing the day after the extraction, avoiding the extraction site for the first 24 hours. Keeping the rest of the mouth clean helps prevent infection. Just make sure they don’t rinse or spit forcefully during the initial healing period.