What is a tooth extraction?
While Dr. Karrie Lee makes every effort to preserve your child's natural teeth, sometimes a tooth needs to be extracted. Our pediatric dentist can perform simple and surgical pediatric tooth extractions to help young patients overcome issues such as retained baby teeth and impacted molars. No matter the reason for needing this procedure in Prosper, TX, WindHaven Pediatric Dentistry will provide the best possible care. This includes adequate numbing and gentle dental techniques. If your child needs to have a tooth removed, call now for a consultation.
Tooth Extractions Reviews
Who is a candidate for a tooth extraction?
WindHaven Pediatric Dentistry performs tooth extractions to treat or manage a wide range of issues, including:
- Baby teeth have not come out on their own and are preventing the permanent teeth from erupting.
- The cavity on a tooth has created an infection (abscess).
- Tooth decay or an injury has left too little tooth structure to support a dental crown.
- The patient’s smile is overcrowded and needs orthodontic treatment.
Our pediatric dentists can determine if your child is a candidate for extraction during a dental evaluation. During this appointment, we will examine their mouth, take images as necessary, and create a treatment plan based on their needs.
What to expect during a tooth extraction
Pediatric tooth extractions are a necessary procedure for many children, and WindHaven Pediatric Dentistry understands how important it is to make sure your child feels comfortable and safe. The first step of the procedure is to numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic. Once the area is numb, our pediatric dentist in Prosper, TX uses advanced dental tools to gently remove the tooth. In some cases, the tooth may need to be broken into smaller pieces to make removal easier. We then clean the area where the tooth was removed and place a gauze pad over the empty socket to help stop any bleeding.
How long is recovery after a tooth extraction?
After the extraction, it is normal for your child to feel some discomfort. We will provide detailed instructions on how to care for the empty socket and manage any pain or swelling. It is important that your child takes it easy for the next few days and does not participate in any strenuous activities during recovery. You should also avoid giving them hard or chewy foods, as this could disrupt the healing process. Most children heal quickly and without any complications following a tooth extraction, but call us if you have any concerns.
Tooth extractions FAQs
Do I need a wisdom tooth removed?
Wisdom tooth removal is necessary if they start to cause your child problems. Potential issues include pain, swelling, or redness that increases their chance of infection. Impacted teeth can also prevent the surrounding teeth from growing properly. WindHaven Pediatric Dentistry can perform a successful treatment that improves your child's dental health.
What happens if I don't get a tooth extracted?
If you wait too long to have a pediatric tooth extraction, it can lead to a number of complications like infection and damage to the other teeth. Young patients in Frisco, TX have a better chance of avoiding these complications when they have treatment as soon as possible. However, that's not to say an older child or teen can't benefit from a tooth extraction.
What sedation options do you offer?
Dr. Lee offers many sedation options so children can be as comfortable as possible during their pediatric appointment. We provide nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and in-office general anesthesia for patients. The dosage of each option varies depending on the extent of the tooth extraction and their unique needs.
Pediatric Tooth Extractions Performed With Care
If your child has a tooth that is damaged or if their mouth doesn't have space for a new tooth, a pediatric dental extraction at WindHaven Pediatric Dentistry can help improve your young one's smile and oral health. Make an appointment with Dr. Lee at WindHaven Pediatric Dentistry in Prosper, TX to learn more about simple and surgical tooth extractions for your child. If they have dental anxieties or fears, you can ask about sedation choices to help keep them calm throughout their treatment.