Although baby teeth eventually fall out naturally, there are situations where a dentist might recommend removing a tooth. Here's why:
- Stubborn Baby Teeth: Sometimes, a baby tooth has roots that are oddly shaped or too long. This can prevent it from loosening and falling out on its own. To make room for the permanent tooth waiting below, the dentist might need to remove the stubborn baby tooth.
- Tooth Decay: If a tooth has severe decay that can't be saved with a filling, removing it might be necessary. This protects nearby healthy teeth and the jawbone from infection.
- Infection: A badly infected tooth can cause pain and spread to other teeth. To stop the infection and protect your child's health, the dentist might recommend removing the tooth.
- Orthodontic Needs: In some cases, creating space for proper tooth alignment might require removing a baby tooth or permanent tooth. This helps ensure a healthy, beautiful smile for your child.
- Wisdom Teeth Problems: Wisdom teeth, those extra molars in the back of the mouth, can sometimes grow in crooked or cause crowding. If they cause pain or other issues, a dentist might recommend removing them.
In case that your child's tooth extraction is considered necessary, your pediatric dentist will either arrange a separate appointment or perform the extraction during a routine examination. Every tooth has a root that is housed in a "tooth socket" in the jawbone, and a ligament holds the tooth in place. The dentist has to expand the tooth socket and release the tooth from the ligament that is holding it in place in order to extract the tooth. Even though this process is usually quite short, it's still vital to discuss any concerns or sedation preferences with your dentist; we want your child to feel as comfortable as possible.
Post-Treatment Care Instructions: Keeping Your Child Comfortable
Here are some tips to help your child heal comfortably after their dental treatment:
- Skip the straw: Straws can dislodge the dressing or clot on the treatment area.
- Gentle rinsing: Avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting, which can irritate the treatment site.
- Soft food choices: Stick to a soft diet for the next few days. Avoid popcorn, pretzels, pizza crusts, crackers, and any food with sharp edges that could cause discomfort or disrupt healing.
- Pain management: If your child experiences any soreness, you can safely administer a children's dose of Tylenol® or Advil® according to the age and weight recommendations on the packaging.
- Swelling: If your child's face starts to swell, apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a towel to the affected area. For persistent swelling or any other concerns, don't hesitate to call our office.
