Extractions
Tooth Removal
Sometimes a child needs to have a tooth removed. Some of the most common reasons for tooth removal are:
- Severe tooth decay
- Advanced gum disease
- Injured or broken teeth that can’t be repaired otherwise
- Teeth with poor positioning in the mouth
- Preparation for orthodontic treatment
What Happens During a Child’s Dental Extraction?
The first thing the dentist does during an extraction is to numb the gums and the surrounding area around the tooth. Then she will inject the child’s gums with more numbing to prevent any pain during the removal.
We will make the child aware that they will feel pressure during the extraction, but they shouldn’t have any pain. This pressure is because the dentist has to rock the tooth to get it out of the tooth socket to be fully removed. Depending on the tooth and the site of extraction, it usually doesn’t take very long for a tooth to be removed.
After Extraction
Once the tooth has been extracted, the area where the tooth was needs to form a blood clot to begin the healing process. Your child will need to bite on gauze for about 30-45 minutes after the extraction’s completion. If the area keeps bleeding, your child should keep biting on a fresh piece of gauze for about 30 more minutes. To keep the blood clot in place, don’t rinse your child’s mouth out vigorously, or suck on straws for about 72 hours. Dr. Criss sends her patients home with a complete list of do’s and don’ts when they leave, and is available to answer any questions that may arise.