Children can encounter dental issues at times. Dental professionals, at first, will let the parents understand their options for treating the problems. However, tooth extraction is always the last treatment to choose. Qualified dentists will consider the other options before deciding to remove the child’s tooth first.
What Are Child Tooth Extractions?
Some parents may think that their children require a tooth extraction, and the only way to understand is a full evaluation of their mouth by a professional dentist.
There are two types of tooth extractions that a child might experience- simple and surgical. A simple extraction needs to be done on an already grown-in and visibly present tooth. On the other hand, the surgical option should be considered for a tooth that is either fully or partially impacted.
When pediatric tooth extractions San Antonio are considered, it is vital for parents to follow the dentist’s instructions. This will help their children get a successful and full recovery without much of a stretch.
Common Reasons for Pediatric Tooth Extractions
Below is the list of reasons that a professional dentist will need to extract a child’s tooth instead of treating it.
A Damaged Tooth by an Accident
A child’s teeth can get severely injured by an accident. In that situation, the dentist must extract those teeth from the mouth. Common accidents children can face in their childhood include sports injuries, falling when riding a bike, car accidents, etc.
Severe Tooth Decay
Too much decay present in the child’s tooth is one of the main reasons for pediatric tooth extractions. A child’s tooth that has decay can be saved. However, if too much decay is present in the child’s tooth, it can be so weak that it tends to break. Research says that tooth decay is the most common childhood disease.
To Support Needed Orthodontic Treatment
Sometimes, children’s teeth do not fall out when they are supposed to. In this scenario, dental crowding becomes an issue. For that, dentists often need to extract one or more teeth.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Reassuring the child about some bleeding to be expected after the tooth extraction is vital. The dentist will pack the socket with sterile gauze immediately after tooth extraction. Some tiny sutures may be needed to aid the healing process once the tooth extractions happen.
You must not rinse for the first 24 hours. It will enable the protective clot to develop. Once done, rinse the area with saltwater. It will keep the area clean and also reduce any discomfort.
Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen can help relieve pain. Moreover, parents can apply ice on the jaw as this will minimize slight swelling. If there is any unusual swelling or the child gets a fever, parents must make an appointment with the dentist.
In addition, parents should give their children soft meals for the first few days and take them away from eating crunchy or hard foods for at least a week after tooth extractions. It will help the extraction site clean and put protective clots in place. Make sure your child drinks an adequate amount of water for proper hydration. It will also help clean the mouth.
If you want to know if tooth extraction is needed for your child, talk to our dentists now. Having years of experience and expertise, our professionals can help you to the core.
