How We Approach A Childhood Tooth Extraction
Sometimes, a tooth has an oral health concern that is too advanced to be treated with a dental filling or possibly a crown. In these situations, our team may recommend extracting a tooth. In today’s blog, your Dallas, TX, pediatric dentist talks about how we conduct a safe and comfortable tooth extraction!
When Do Kids Need a Tooth Removed?
When a tooth has a concern too severe to be treated with a restoration, leaving it in place could lead to the spread of infection and impact the stability of the smile. Which is why we recommend removing these teeth completely. For example, one that is severely decayed or infected, or has sustained major damage. We could take out teeth to also make room for orthodontic treatment, or to remove a baby tooth that falls to fall out as it should. But one major reason is to prevent wisdom tooth impaction for teens, extracting the new molars before they erupt and lead to painful impactions, infections, and dental misalignment.
The Dental Extraction Process
First, we will take steps to make sure your child is comfortable. We will administer a local numbing agent to the area around the tooth being removed. We also have dental sedation. We could prescribe nitrous oxide, which is inhaled in a gas form and wears off as soon as the procedure ends. We also have oral and IV sedation, which provides much deeper states of relation. A trained and board-certified anesthesiologist will be on hand the entire time to monitor your child.
Once your child is ready, we will gently remove the tooth with a pair of forceps. The entire process will be carefully planned with digital x-trays and intraoral cameras, so we can offer treatment with precision and accuracy. We suture the area closed, and send your child home.
What Happens Next?
Clots will need to form as the area heals, so your kids should eat only soft foods, avoid poking the site with their tongues, and they should be very gentle when brushing and flossing too. We will provide detailed aftercare instructions for eating and resting, as well as medications to ensure your child is corbel and that the area heals without complication. A visit now to address serious concerns could mean we complete treatment before the hectic holiday season begins, and before your 2022 dental benefits expire. If you have any questions, then contact our team today to learn more.
Your Dallas, TX, Dentist Offers Restorative Dentistry
We would love to help kids of all ages enjoy good oral health. If you have any questions about safeguarding your child’s oral health, then contact your Dallas, TX pediatric dentist, Dr. Marr, by calling (214) 321-4880.
filed under: Restorations for Kids