Pediatric Tooth Extractions With a Gentle Touch

Losing a tooth might sound scary for your little one and you, and with good reason! That’s why Dr. Ritchie prioritizes making you and your child feel comfortable and safe throughout your visit to our practice. With gentle techniques and the latest technology on our side, we ensure that your child’s pediatric tooth extraction is as painless and stress-free as possible.

When Should Your Child Get a Tooth Extraction?

• They have tooth decay. Tooth decay can lead to infection, pain, and discomfort. If it is too severe to be treated with a filling or a crown, the tooth may need to be extracted.
• They have a crowded mouth: Some children’s mouths may be too small to accommodate all of their teeth. When this happens, teeth may become crowded, leading to misalignment or crooked teeth. In some cases, we may need to extract to create space for the remaining teeth.
• They have impacted teeth: When a tooth fails to emerge from the gum, it is known as an impacted tooth. Impacted teeth can cause pain and discomfort and may need to be extracted.
• Their baby teeth haven’t fallen out: In some cases, a baby tooth may not fall out on its own, which can interfere with new teeth emerging. We may recommend extraction for these baby teeth to avoid complications.

What To Expect During The Extraction

First, your child will be given an anesthetic to reduce discomfort. This will allow their mouth to remain numb throughout treatment and for a few hours after. Next, Dr. Ritchie will gently extract the tooth from your child’s mouth. We will place a gauze pack on the extraction site to limit bleeding and allow a blood clot to form–this helps to promote the natural healing process. It’s as simple as that!

The Aftercare

After the procedure, your child could experience some discomfort and swelling. Dr. Ritchie will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure everything heals properly. In general, you should encourage your child to rest and help them avoid vigorous physical activity for the first few days. Your child should also avoid hard or crunchy foods and drink plenty of fluids.

It’s important to keep the extraction site clean to prevent infection. Help them gently rinse their mouth with warm salt water several times daily. We also recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to help manage any discomfort.

Why Choose Tyler Pediatric Dentistry?

Does your child need a tooth extraction? We offer dental services that prioritize making your child feel as comfortable and safe as possible. We will explain everything to you and your child beforehand, and answer any questions you might have.

If you’re ready to learn more or book an appointment, contact our friendly pediatric dental office. We’re happy to discuss the procedure and answer any questions you might have.