Dental Extractions in Christiansburg, VA
Tooth Extractions for Children – Safe & Gentle Care
New River Valley Pediatric Dentistry understands that the idea of having to remove a child's tooth can be overwhelming. We strive to make the experience as painless and stress-free as possible while still ensuring that your child has the best oral health. Sometimes tooth extractions are necessary to promote your child's dental health and protect their overall dental wellbeing.
Why are tooth extractions necessary for children?
There are some situations when a child's tooth extraction may be the best choice, even though baby teeth should fall out on their own. These are the most common reasons a child might need to have a tooth extracted:
Severe tooth decay
When the cavity is too big to be filled or restored with a crown.
Abscess or Infection
When an infection spreads inside the tooth, threatening adjacent teeth and gums.
Impacted teeth
Teeth that cannot erupt correctly and can cause crowding.
Overcrowding
It is sometimes necessary to remove teeth to make room for orthodontic treatment.
Injury or Trauma
If a tooth is broken or fractured and cannot be repaired, it may be necessary to extract the tooth.
Delayed baby tooth loss
When the eruption of permanent teeth is delayed because a baby tooth refuses to fall out.
Different types of pediatric tooth extractions
Depending on the condition and the location of the tooth, there are two categories of extractions:
1. Simple Extractions
- When the tooth is visible, and accessible.
- Local anesthesia is required to make the area painless.
- Specialized instruments are used to gently loosen and remove the tooth.
2. Surgical Extractions
- When the tooth has not fully emerged or is impacted, this procedure may be necessary.
- A small incision may be made in the gum in order to reach the tooth.
- For comfort, it may be necessary to use sedation or anesthesia general.
What to expect during the tooth extraction process
New River Valley Pediatric Dentistry takes every measure to make sure your child feels comfortable during and after any procedure.
Consultation and Examination
An X-ray is taken to evaluate the condition and determine if extraction is needed.
Discuss treatment options including alternative treatments when possible.
Anesthesia & Sedation options
The area is numbed completely by local anesthesia.
Sedation options, such as IV sedation or nitrous dioxide (laughing gases), can help anxious children relax.
Tooth removal
The dentist will remove the tooth with minimum discomfort after gently loosening it.
If stitches are needed, they can be applied after the small incision is made.
Post-Extraction care
To stop bleeding, a gauze is placed on the site of extraction.
To ensure a smooth recovery, instructions are given for home care.
After-Extraction Care – Ensure a Smooth Recovery
Aftercare is crucial to ensure that your child heals comfortably and quickly. Here are a few tips on how to care for your child after an extraction:
How to Manage Bleeding
After the procedure, keep gauze on for 30 minutes.
Replace the gauze and gently bite your child to stop bleeding.
Pain Management
You can manage mild discomfort with pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen, as recommended by your dentist.
Aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding in children.
Dietary Guideline
For the first 24 hrs, stick to soft food like yogurt, applesauce and mashed potatoes.
Avoid spicy or hot food that can irritate the extraction area.
Oral Hygiene
Continue to brush and floss, but do not touch the extraction site the first day.
Rinse warm saltwater after 24 hours. This will promote healing and reduce swelling.
Activity Restriction
Rest the rest of the day.
To avoid complications, you should refrain from strenuous sports or activities for a couple of days.
What are the risks? When should you call your dentist?
The procedure is generally considered safe. However, it's vital to watch your child closely for any complications. If your child has any of the following symptoms, please call our office.
- Bleeding that continues or is excessive beyond 24 hours.
- Severe pain that is not relieved by medication
- Infections or swelling (fever, pus or bad taste) can cause swelling or a bad taste.
- Dry socket (loss or absence of blood clot that protects the skin, causing severe pain)
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my child experience pain during the extraction procedure?
We use local anesthesia, which ensures a painless procedure. We also offer sedation options for your comfort.
How long will it take my child to get better?
The majority of children will recover in a matter of days. Follow the instructions for post-extraction to speed healing.
Can my child eat normally again after the extraction?
They should avoid straws and soft food for the first 24-hours to prevent the blood clot from being dislodged.
Does my child require a space maintainer following an extraction?
A space maintainer can be used to ensure that the space is left open to allow the permanent tooth to grow correctly.
Book an appointment Today!
New River Valley Pediatric Dentistry makes pediatric tooth removals stress-free with our compassionate care and expertise. Contact us to set up an appointment if your child requires an extraction, or if you are concerned about their dental health.