Your child can obtain pediatric dental extractions with our pediatric dentist
Pediatric dentists work with children who may need dental extractions. This includes the extraction of primary teeth, a decayed tooth, or even a damaged tooth. In some instances, a child may also need baby teeth removal. Drs. John De Lorme and Sam Wu are pediatric dentists who can talk to parents about the possible need to extract their children’s teeth.
Below are a few everyday situations where our team at South OC Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics of Mission Viejo, California, may recommend the removal of teeth in children:
- When a tooth is severely decayed and beyond repair, an extraction may be necessary to prevent the spread of this infection to other teeth.
- If your child has overcrowded teeth, it might be beneficial for them to have one or more teeth removed. This allows space for healthy adult teeth to come in through the gum line without being crowded out by baby teeth in their smaller mouths.
- To make room for orthodontic treatment such as braces or Invisalign, our dentists may recommend removing certain teeth, which can accelerate the process and improve results.
- Impacted wisdom teeth might also cause pain and discomfort if not taken care of properly. If your child has impacted wisdom teeth, removing them may be necessary.
- In some cases, a baby tooth may need to be extracted if the adult tooth is not coming in at the right time or angle. This could impede orthodontic treatment.
- If a tooth has been significantly damaged due to trauma or an accident or injury, an extraction might be needed if the tooth cannot be saved.
Schedule an appointment at our pediatric dental practice in Mission Viejo, California! If your child needs any of these types of dental extractions, our team at South OC Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics is here to help. We understand that this can be stressful for you and your child. Fortunately, with our skilled and experienced team, we can make the procedure pain-free and easy! Call (949) 581 5800 to request an appointment at our office at 26302 La Paz Road, Suite #114. We serve patients in the areas of Laguna Niguel, San Juan Capistrano, Aliso Viejo, and the surrounding communities.
Extractions FAQs
Why might my child need a tooth extraction?
Having an extraction is sometimes necessary when a tooth is extensively decayed, has developed an infection, or is creating overcrowding. Extractions may also be recommended for baby teeth if the tooth has become loose but isn’t falling out on its own, preventing the adult tooth from coming in. Sometimes, a tooth may need to be removed to make space for braces or other dental treatments. Extractions help protect your child’s oral health and aid in properly aligning their permanent teeth.
How is a tooth extraction performed?
Tooth extractions are performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area to ensure your child is comfortable throughout the procedure. If your child is very anxious or nervous, sedation options are available. Once the area is numbed, the dentist gently loosens and removes the tooth. The process is typically quick and well-tolerated, with the dentist providing aftercare instructions to minimize discomfort during recovery.
Is a tooth extraction painful for my child?
Due to the local anesthesia used, a tooth extraction should not be painful. After the procedure, your child may experience mild discomfort, swelling, or soreness in the affected area. However, this is normal and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Most children recover quickly and resume their normal activities within a day or two. It’s important to follow all aftercare instructions to ensure smooth healing.
How long will it take for my child to heal after a tooth extraction?
Healing time after a tooth extraction depends on the complexity of the procedure and your child’s overall health. Healing can take a few days to a week for most simple extractions. The first 24 hours are the most important for ensuring proper healing, as blood clots form to protect the extraction site. After this period, your child can usually resume normal eating and activities, though hard or chewy foods should be avoided for a little longer.
What should I do after my child has a tooth extracted?
Post-extraction care is essential for minimizing discomfort and promoting proper healing. Here are some guidelines:
- Keep your child’s mouth clean by gently rinsing with saltwater after the first 24 hours.
- Avoid using a straw or sucking motions, as this can disturb the healing process and lead to a dry socket.
- Stick to soft foods and avoid anything too hot or cold.
- Ensure your child doesn’t poke the site with their tongue or fingers.
- If swelling occurs, apply a cold compress to the outside of the face.
Are there any risks associated with tooth extractions?
While tooth extractions are generally safe, some risks include infection, dry socket (a painful condition where the blood clot dislodges), or excessive bleeding. However, these complications are rare when proper aftercare is followed. If your child experiences unusual symptoms, like severe pain, prolonged bleeding, or fever, contact the dentist immediately for further evaluation.
What happens if we don’t get the tooth extracted when necessary?
If a tooth that needs to be extracted is not removed, it may cause further dental problems, such as infection, misalignment of permanent teeth, or overcrowding. For baby teeth, leaving them in place can delay the eruption of permanent teeth, potentially requiring more extensive orthodontic treatment in the future. Addressing the issue promptly helps prevent more serious complications down the line.
