Tooth Extractions – Casper
Preserving the Health of Your Child’s Smile
Tooth extractions are always the last resort of your child’s dentist. We do everything we can to help them keep their pearly whites strong and healthy. However, sometimes extractions are necessary to preserve the health of your child’s smile. There are a variety of reasons why tooth extractions are sometimes needed, and Dr. Paulson has extensive experience removing primary teeth, so he can help this process go as smoothly and comfortably as possible. Continue reading to learn more about tooth extractions and how they work. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to give us a call!
Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary
We will always do everything in our power to help our patients keep their natural teeth. However, sometimes this isn’t a viable option. Here are some of the most common reasons why some children need teeth extracted:
- Severe, irreparable damage to a tooth
- An extraction is necessary for orthodontic treatment
- A tooth is impacted and unable to erupt properly
- A primary tooth will not fall out on its own
- There isn’t enough room in the mouth to accommodate all teeth
The Process of Removing a Tooth
Teeth are removed by one of two methods: pulling and surgical extraction. Teeth are “pulled” when they have fully emerged from the gumline. In this case, we will begin by numbing the area around the tooth and using a clasping tool to shift the tooth around until it breaks away from the gumline. If pulling a tooth isn’t a possibility, the tooth will need to be surgically extracted. For this procedure, a small incision is made into the gum tissue, allowing us to reach the tooth and remove it completely.
To make this procedure as comfortable as possible for your child, we offer several sedation options to make them feel as relaxed as possible.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Before leaving the practice, you will be provided with specific aftercare instructions to prevent complications and help your child remain comfortable. Everyone’s case is different, but here are some of the key steps that we recommend:
- Rinse with saltwater 24 hours after the procedure.
- Refrain from using straws when drinking liquids.
- Provide your child with a soft-food diet for several days after their extraction.
- For discomfort, use Children’s Tylenol, Advil, or Motrin as directed for the age of your child.
- Administer any prescription medication as directed by your child’s dentist.
- If bleeding occurs, have your child bite firmly on cotton gauze for 15 minutes.
- Remind your child to keep their tongue and fingers away from the extraction site.