Why Would My Child Need A Tooth Extraction? 

Dental Extractions

BY DR. AZI A. ARDAKANI, DDS

At Little Heroes of Orange County Pediatric Dentistry, we make every effort to save damaged teeth and maintain healthy smiles. However, there are times when extracting a tooth may be our only option to safeguard your child’s smile. Dr. Azi and her kid-friendly team are committed to ensuring your child feels safe and comfortable during treatment. You can count on us for exceptional, gentle care.

Why Would My Child Need a Tooth Extraction?

Why Would Your Child Require a Tooth Extraction?

There are many reasons why a child may need to have a tooth extracted, including the following:

  • Severe Decay: If tooth decay is left untreated, it can progress and reach the inner pulp that contains the tooth’s nerves, leaving your child with severe pain or infection. If the tooth damage is beyond repair with a dental filling, crown, or nerve treatment, we may need to extract it to protect the surrounding teeth and avoid further complications.
  • Infection: A severe infection can cause an abscess around the tooth’s root or surrounding tissue, causing pain, swelling, and potential health complications. At times, our only option is to extract the tooth to eliminate the source of infection and prevent its spread to the adjacent teeth or bone.
  • Trauma or Injury: An accidental fall or sports injury can result in a fracture, crack, or dislodged tooth. Depending on the extent of damage and the tooth’s viability, we may recommend having the tooth extracted to prevent further complications.
  • Orthodontic Treatment: Selective tooth extractions are sometimes needed as a component of an orthodontic treatment plan to treat crooked or crowded teeth. That can help create the space required for the remaining teeth to move into alignment.
  • Baby Teeth that Do Not Fall Out: If a baby tooth does not fall out in a timely manner, it can interfere with the proper eruption of the incoming permanent tooth. If that happens, we may need to remove the tooth to prevent complications.

What Can You Expect?

Dr. Azi will start by administering a local anesthetic to ensure your child is free of pain during the procedure. She also offers sedation dentistry options, if needed, to help your child feel calm and relaxed.

Most pediatric tooth extractions are quick and simple. Dr. Azi will loosen the affected tooth and gently remove it from its socket. Your child may feel mild pressure, but the area will be numb, so there should be no discomfort.

Promoting Healing After Tooth Extraction

Most kids experience minimal to no pain after having a tooth removed. If, however, your child has swelling or discomfort, cold compresses can help. Have your child drink plenty of water, avoid hard or crunchy foods, and not drink out of a straw for the first 24 hours. Remind your child not to brush around the extraction site for a couple of days until the area heals.

Maintaining the Space After Extraction

If your child has a primary tooth extracted before the permanent replacement is ready to come in, Dr. Azi may recommend a space maintainer. The oral device prevents the neighboring teeth from shifting out of alignment. It also holds the space the permanent tooth needs to come in the correct position. Space maintainers significantly reduce the need for orthodontic treatment later on in life.

Pediatric Dental Extractions Near Me in Laguna Hills, CA

If your child needs to have one or more teeth extracted, you are in good hands. Our skilled pediatric dentist and her exceptional team are committed to ensuring our young patients are comfortable and free of stress before, during, and after treatment. We invite you to call our office at 949-342-1484 to schedule your little hero’s appointment or request one online today!

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