Baby tooth extraction is a common pediatric dentistry procedure. It involves the surgical removal of teeth. Your child’s dentist will only recommend tooth removal when it is necessary. But it is vital to learn as much as possible about this pediatric dentistry procedure. Keep reading to learn more about what the process involves and how to care for your child after an extraction.
Pediatric dentistry
There are particular cases when a child needs to have a tooth pulled. This is often necessary if the tooth is badly decayed or damaged beyond repair by disease or dental trauma. It may also be ideal when baby teeth begin to crowd adult teeth coming in. But regardless of the reason, it is vital to follow the dentist’s instructions after an extraction. They are meant to aid a child to heal properly and avoid complications like an infection.
Tooth extraction process
A pediatric dentist will first take the appropriate X-rays. This will help to assess the tooth’s roots and bone condition, and to reveal other vital information. Most times, a simple extraction only requires a local anesthetic. A device, called an elevator, is often used to loosen the tooth before removing it with dental forceps. A surgical extraction, which is a more complicated removal, often requires local anesthesia and nitrous oxide. This procedure usually involves removing some gum tissue near the tooth so that it can be removed.
Recovery from a tooth extraction
Pediatric dentists always do everything they can to ensure the procedure is as comfortable as possible. A patient will most likely still experience some minor swelling or discomfort after an extraction. But there are several things people can do to minimize pain, swelling, and other symptoms. After the procedure, patients should only eat soft foods for a while.
Parents should avoid giving their children hot foods for a few hours until the numbness wears off. The area of extraction is usually not brushed for several days following the procedure. Instead, patients may be instructed to rinse with warm salt water for several days. This will not only help with healing but to also keep the area clean.
Children should not suck from a straw or spit vigorously for about a week after extraction. These actions may cause the healing area to bleed. When it comes to pain management and swelling, ice packs are often beneficial. A dentist may also recommend medications that can help manage pain and speed up the recovery process.
Tooth removal and your pediatric dentist
Pediatric dentists often care for children’s teeth, gums, and mouth. They are highly trained and experienced and can help address many oral health problems. Having a professional in charge of the tooth extraction procedure often gives many parents peace of mind. It is crucial to closely follow the dentist’s instructions before and after a tooth is pulled. But you should call the dentist right away if you notice your kid is having difficulty recovering. To find out more about tooth extractions in pediatric dentistry, talk to your pediatric dentist today.
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