Is Tooth Extraction Painful For Kids?

It’s exciting to see your child losing their baby teeth naturally; this paves the way for their adult teeth to grow normally. However, your little one may need help letting go of their baby teeth. The dentist in Great Neck, NY can recommend removing baby teeth that haven’t fallen out in time to ensure the adult teeth grow naturally and avoid overcrowding, misalignments, and other bite problems.

Tooth extraction may also be necessary if your baby or adult tooth is decayed or damaged (by trauma) beyond repair. Orthodontic treatments also require tooth extraction to reduce crowding and straighten the nearby teeth.

If your child has an appointment for a tooth extraction, you might be curious about the degree of pain your child may experience. Generally, kid’s teeth extractions are simple and often very quick. Keep on reading to learn more about pediatric tooth extractions.

What does tooth extraction involve?

Before extraction, the dentist may take x-rays of the kid’s roots and bone. In most cases, a kid’s teeth are removed via simple extraction. The dentist will use an anesthetic to prevent pain. In some cases, sedation may be necessary to calm the child.

Then, the dentist uses an elevator to loosen the tooth by moving it back and forth to separate it from the periodontal ligaments that attack the tooth roots to the jawbone. Then, they will use a pair of forceps to remove the loosened tooth.

Surgical extractions often require the dentist or surgeon to make incisions through the gums and sometimes bone to access the tooth for easy removal.

After either extraction, the dentist will place a gauze pad on the socket to add pressure and minimize bleeding. The gauze should stay in place for about 15 to 30 minutes. The dentist will also give you aftercare instructions to help your child heal and recover smoothly and quickly. Ask the dentist any questions about caring for your child after tooth extraction.

Is it painful?

Pediatric dental extraction for kids involves little to no pain. Your child will be numbed during the extraction, meaning they won’t experience discomfort. However, they might feel little to no pain after the anesthetic wears off. Fortunately, your dentist can give you medication to manage pain after the extraction.

Follow-Up Care for Tooth Extractions

Once the anesthetic wears off, your child will likely experience minor discomfort and swelling. Fortunately, these effects should fade away within a few days. Among the aftercare instructions your dentist will give you and your child include the following:

• Keep the gauze in place until the bleeding stops.
• Avoid rinsing for the first 24 hours.
• Avoid chewing on the side the tooth was extracted.
• Don’t eat or drink until the anesthetic wears off.
• Eat soft and cool foods for the next few days. Avoid hard, hot, cold, and crunchy items, as they can disturb the socket.
• Don’t touch the socket with your finger or tongue.
• Avoid spitting or drinking with a straw in the next 24 hours.
• Use a cold compress on the cheek to minimize pain and swelling.
• Drink enough water to wash away bacteria and debris to prevent infections.
• Rest adequately. Playing or working can cause pressure on the extracted area, leading to more bleeding, swelling, and pain.
• Avoid mouthwash that contains alcohol.
• Take any medication as directed.
• Maintain excellent oral hygiene.

When to Call Your Dentist

While not common, complications can arise after tooth extraction. Call or take your child to the dentist immediately if they experience the following:

• Severe pain or discomfort
• Persistent swelling
• Pus in the socket or other signs of infection
• Fever
• Excessive bleeding

Replacing an Extracted Tooth

If you’re wondering what happens after your child’s tooth is extracted, it depends. If it’s an adult tooth extracted, it’s essential to replace it as soon as possible. Since your child’s jaw may not be fully developed, a dental implant may not be an option. In such a case, the dentist can recommend a bridge or denture to close the gap to maintain your child’s smile and bite function.

If a baby tooth is removed, the dentist uses a space maintainer to cover the gap to maintain enough space for the adult tooth to grow when it’s time. If the gap isn’t covered, the adjacent teeth can move toward the space, reducing the room for the adult tooth to grow normally. I can also lead to overcrowding and misalignments.

Are you interested in pediatric tooth extractions in Great Neck, NY?

For more information about kids’ tooth extractions and other dental services, contact Great Neck Dental Associates.