Tooth Extractions

Dental care for kids in Allentown PA

Does My Child Need a Tooth Extraction?

You and Dr. Brinton may determine that your child needs a tooth extraction for any number of reasons. Some teeth are extracted because they are severely decayed or abscessed; others may have advanced periodontal disease, or have broken in a way that cannot be repaired. Other teeth may need removal because they are poorly positioned in the mouth (such as impacted teeth), or in preparation for orthodontic treatment.

The Extraction Process

At the time of extraction the doctor will need to numb your child’s tooth and gums that surround the area with a local anesthetic.

During the extraction process you child will feel a lot of pressure. This is from the process of firmly rocking the tooth in order to widen the socket for removal.

Your child will feel the pressure without pain as the anesthetic has numbed the nerves stopping the transference of pain, yet the nerves that transmit pressure are not profoundly affected.

After Tooth Extraction

After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. Your child should bite on a gauze pad for 15-20 minutes immediately after the appointment. If the bleeding or oozing still persists, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 20 minutes. You may have to do this several times to staunch the flow of blood.

After the blood clot forms it is important to not disturb or dislodge the clot. Do not allow your child to rinse, suck on straws, or brush teeth next to the extraction site for 24 hours. These activities may dislodge or dissolve the clot and hinder the healing process. Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours, as this increases blood pressure and may cause more bleeding from the extraction site.

After the tooth is extracted your child may feel some pain and experience some swelling. An ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn applied to the area will keep swelling to a minimum. Take pain medications as prescribed. The swelling usually subsides after 48 hours.

Use pain medication as directed. Call our office if the medication doesn’t seem to be working. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time even if signs and symptoms of infection are gone. Drink lots of fluids and eat nutritious, soft food on the day of the extraction.

It is important to resume your child’s normal dental routine after 24 hours. This should include brushing and flossing their teeth at least once a day. This will speed healing and help keep your mouth fresh and clean.

After a few days your child should feel fine and can resume normal activities. If your child has heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for 2-3 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately.