When Does Extraction Help Little Smiles?
When a tooth has a cavity or infection, we could treat it with a filling or pulpotomy. But sometimes an issue becomes so severe that removing the tooth is necessary to protect the smile as a whole. In today’s blog, your Dallas, TX, pediatric dentist talks about the tooth extraction process.
The Impacts of Infection or Wisdom Teeth
When does a tooth need to be removed completely? If a case of tooth decay leads to an infection and becomes beyond the reach of a pulpotomy, then tooth extraction could be necessary to avoid the spread of infection to other parts of the smile. We could also remove wisdom teeth in older kids before they erupt. As these new molars could increase the risk of complications like infection, impaction, misalignment, and more. We could also remove one to make room for orthodontic treatment, or to help improve bite balance and chewing function.
Dental Sedation
We not only administer a local anesthetic to ensure your child is comfortable, but we could also discuss dental sedation. We have three options available, nitrous oxide lets kids enter a state of relaxation and calm, and wears off when the procedure ends. Oral sedation and IV offer a deeper state and take time to wear off completely. The option we recommend will depend on a number of factors, such as anxiety levels, health history, or special needs.
Tooth Extraction
When your little one is comfortable, we will then gently remove the tooth with a pair of forceps. You will then bring your child home, along with detailed instructions for the first day or two, in which your child needs to take it easy and relax as the area heals. Afterward, they can return to normal activities. They should take any prescribed medications as instructed, avoid the use of a straw, eat soft foods, and avoid poking the area with their tongue. They can brush and floss, but most do so carefully and gently.
If you have any questions about how we gently and carefully remove a tooth to correct oral health issues, or if your child is overdue for a checkup and cleaning visit, then give us a call today. We want to help your little one enjoy good oral health, and obtain a better understanding of his or her oral health and the actions needed to keep teeth strong and bright!
Your Dallas, TX, Pediatric Dentist Talks About Oral Surgery
We want to help your children enjoy strong and healthy smiles with restorative dental care. If you would like to set up an appointment with us, then contact your Dallas, TX pediatric dentist, Dr. Marr, by calling (214) 321-4880. We’re always here to help your family with your oral health needs!
filed under: Restorations for Kids