Tooth extractions are not a fun dental treatment. If possible, we try to restore a tooth rather than remove it. This applies to baby teeth, too, because removing them too early can affect the development and health of permanent teeth. That said, sometimes extractions can be the best choice for a kid’s oral health!
When Do We Recommend Extractions?
When a tooth gets infected, an abscess can form underneath it. We may need to pull out the tooth and drain the abscess. We also may need to remove a tooth if a cavity is so large, there’s no healthy structure left to support a crown or a filling. Kids also sometimes need extractions for crowded teeth or before orthodontic treatment.
Do Extractions Hurt?
Getting a tooth pulled sounds scary, but modern dentistry makes the process easier than in the past. Our team first injects a local anesthetic, so the area is completely numb. With forceps, the dentist then rocks the tooth back and forth to free it from the gums. Sometimes, we may need to remove a tooth in pieces. During this process, a child will feel pressure, but they won’t be in pain.
What’s Recovery Like After an Extraction?
After getting a tooth pulled, a kid should take 2-3 days off from school and other activities to rest. They should stick to liquids and very soft foods. After the 3-day rest, most kids can go back to their normal routine, but they should avoid anything too intense. Complete healing can take a few weeks. If a child experiences symptoms like fever, intense pain, swelling, numbness, or bleeding that won’t stop, please call our office right away. We’ll always provide detailed aftercare instructions, so the healing process goes as smoothly as possible.
Tooth Extractions at Helotes Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in San Antonio, TX
Our team considers other restorative treatments before extractions, but sometimes, extractions end up being the best option. We’re committed to making the experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible for kids. If you have questions or want to schedule an appointment, please contact us today!
Contact Helotes Pediatric Dentistry Today!