Tooth Extractions – Casper

Preserving the Health of Your Child’s Smile

Illustration of a tooth extraction

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.

Understanding the Cost of Tooth Extractions

When your child needs a tooth extraction, the last thing you want to worry about is money! Although we won’t be able to give you an exact price until we look at your child’s teeth more closely, your dental team at Casper Children’s Dental Clinic want to make the process as stress free as possible. To give you some idea of what to expect before visiting us for a pediatric tooth extraction, we’ve put together some key financial information below. Give it a read-through and be sure to give us a call if you have any questions.

There are a lot of variables that can affect the cost of your child’s tooth extraction. When we determine the cost of service, here’s the type of things we’re looking for:

How many teeth need to be removed in order to restore your child’s oral health? We hope only one, but you should know that removing multiple teeth will be more costly than removing one.
The teeth located farther back in the mouth, like third molars, are harder to reach, so they tend to cost more.
Simple extractions are, well, simple! Impacted extractions, on the other hand, require minor surgery, and are more expensive.
As in the restoration option you choose to replace your child’s tooth (or teeth). Some of our treatments have higher price points than others.

We realize that these variables can seem overwhelming. Rest assured, our team will keep you informed and walk you through the cost breakdown of your child’s treatment.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Tooth Extractions?

Dentist reviewing patient’s dental insurance

Each dental insurance policy is different, so it’s difficult for us to say. However, it is rather common for dental insurance companies to cover 50% of tooth extraction costs. We recommend that you review the details of your plan. If you get lost in the insurance-speak, though, we’d be happy to take a closer look at your benefits and help you determine what is or isn’t covered.

Other Options for Making Tooth Extractions Affordable

Plant growing out of a jar full of coins

If dental insurance is a no-go, we have other options for making your child’s tooth extraction more affordable. Namely, we offer CareCredit; a fantastic flexible financing program.

Simply put, CareCredit’s goal is to take your total bill and break it down into smaller monthly payments – sort of like a subscription plan. When you apply for CareCredit, you’ll have a number of plans to choose from, so you can select the one that works best for you and your budget. They even have little-to-no-interest plans available, which is great for ensuring your overall expenses stay low!

Remember, if you have questions about CareCredit or other financial matters, don’t hesitate to contact us. We want to help you get the care your child needs, which sometimes means clearing up confusion about costs.

Kids’ Tooth Extractions FAQs

Is There an Alternative to a Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extractions in Casper are only recommended when there's no other solution. Your child's dentist will strive to preserve every primary and permanent tooth. However, extractions can be best in certain situations to promote your little one's dental health. It isn't a decision your child's dentist will make lightly.

How is a Tooth Removed?

Your child's dentist in Casper will determine which type of extraction is necessary, which may include:

Simple Extraction: When a tooth is fully visible above the gum line, your child's dentist will numb their mouth before loosening the tooth to extract it with forceps.
Surgical Extraction: If your child's tooth is partially or fully hidden below the gums, it will need to be surgically removed. Sedation or anesthesia will be used to keep your child comfortable. Their dentist will open their gums and extract the tooth.

Will My Child Feel Any Pain?

Your child's comfort will be their dentist’s priority. Depending on your little one's needs, nitrous oxide can be used, which is better known as laughing gas. General anesthesia can also be used, such as during surgical extractions. Your child won't feel anything while in the dentist’s chair. However, after the effects of any medications wear off, their mouth will be tender for a few days. You can manage it using an age-appropriate prescribed or OTC pain reliever. Cold compresses can reduce pain, inflammation, and bruising. Offer soft foods and follow their aftercare instructions.

How Long Does Pain Last After a Tooth is Extracted?

The pain from simple extractions is usually better within 3 days. It may take up to 5 days for discomfort to fully dissipate after a surgical extraction. Your child's mouth should be fully healed in 10-14 days. If your child's pain worsens and is accompanied by a fever, they may have a condition called dry socket. Contact their dentist if their pain doesn't improve.

What Can My Child Eat After a Tooth Extraction?

Offer your little one plenty of liquids for the first 24-48 hours, but don't allow them to use a straw to prevent dry socket. Temperature-check any foods and drinks to avoid accidental burns while their mouth is still numb. Your child should eat soft foods that require minimal chewing for the first day or two, like yogurt, mashed potatoes, or scrambled eggs. Avoid any hard, chewy, or spicy foods.