No one wants to have a tooth extracted – especially not a child. They are only ever performed as a last resort. However, sometimes they are needed to preserve the health of patients’ smiles. If your child needs to have a tooth pulled for one reason or another, they may be worried about the process and what it will feel like. Read on to learn more about what you and your child can expect from the procedure.
Numbing the Area
Before your child’s dentist addresses the tooth, they will start by numbing the area with a local anesthetic. Your child may feel a small pinch as the anesthetic is administered. After a few minutes, they shouldn’t be able to feel a thing. If your child is particularly anxious, sedation options are available to help them feel at ease while they are in the treatment chair.
Tooth Extraction
During the extraction, your child’s dentist will rock their tooth back and forth to widen the socket so the tooth can be separated from the associated ligament. Then, they will grasp the tooth with forceps and remove it from its socket.
Closing the Space
After the tooth is removed, your child’s dentist will close the space where it used to be. Any lost bone or infected tissue will be removed, and the socket will be compressed so it can return to its original size. Then, the dentist will apply firm pressure with gauze to minimize bleeding.
Recovery
It will take your child several days to recover from the procedure. They may need to keep gauze on the site and retain pressure for 30 to 60 minutes to get the bleeding under control. If there is any swelling, an ice pack can be used to reduce it. Here are some other steps to promote a quick, comfortable recovery period:
• Change cause as needed
• Encourage your child to get plenty of rest
• Give your child prescription and/or over-the-counter pain relievers as directed
• When drinking liquids, your child shouldn’t use a straw
• Be careful around the site of the extraction when helping your child brush and floss
Soreness and swelling are normal after the extraction and should be easily managed with medication recommended by their dentist. If there is extensive bleeding, severe pain, fever, extensive discharge, or anything else that concerns you, don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s dentist. This way, they can give you further instructions to help with their recovery.
About the Practice
At Waterford Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Dublin, we have a team of three pediatric dentists and an orthodontist treating the smallest of patients in Dublin, CA. To learn more about tooth extractions, or to schedule an appointment for your child, visit our website or call (925) 803-6880.