Most kids love losing teeth. After all, they get a quarter and a visit from the tooth fairy! They might not be nearly as excited if it’s their dentist who’s removing the tooth, though. However, sometimes it’s necessary. While your dentist will try their best to preserve baby and adult teeth for as long as possible, sometimes the tooth just has to be removed. Read on to learn why a children’s tooth extraction in Poway is needed, and what to expect during and after the procedure.
Why Are Tooth Extractions Necessary?
While your pediatric dentist in Poway does not do orthodontic work herself, she works with local orthodontists, as many dentists do. It’s important to understand that most of the time, tooth extractions are not needed before orthodontic treatment like braces or Invisalign. However, in some cases, not getting a tooth removed can have harmful side effects.
Sometimes there is simply not enough room in the mouth for all the teeth. If they were to erupt, it would cause overcrowding, which increases the risk of decay and gum disease. Not only that, but it can cause the bite to become misaligned and even result in speech impediments. If your child needs a tooth extracted before getting braces and goes through with the treatment without the extraction, he or she could develop problems as mentioned above. In addition, his or her teeth could be pushed out of the jawbone, which can lead to gum recession and eventually tooth loss.
What’s the Procedure Like?
Tooth extraction is one of those procedures that sounds a lot scarier than it actually is. Your kid’s dentist will make sure your little one is nice and numbed up before the procedure, so they don’t experience any pain. For more anxious patients, the dentist may recommend nitrous oxide sedation to help them relax. Nitrous oxide is a completely safe gas that is breathed in through a mask that will put your child in a state of ease, and will wear off quickly after the procedure.
What Should Your Child Do After the Extraction?
It should only take a few days to a week to fully recover from the tooth removal. Here are some steps to take to ensure that process is smooth sailing:
- Have your child stick to soft foods that are easy to chew. This can include ice cream!
- Tell them not to mess with the extraction site with their tongue.
- Avoid straws for a few days afterwards. The suction could cause painful dry socket.
- Provide them with over-the-counter painkillers as needed.
- If you have any concerns, don’t be afraid to call your child’s dentist.
While tooth extractions aren’t exactly the most fun way to lose a tooth, sometimes they’re necessary.
About the Author
Dr. Sam Tiep is a Board-Certified pediatric dentist who adores working with kids to help their little smiles shine. She is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. To learn more about why a tooth extraction may be necessary, contact her at (858)-251-3313.