Tooth ExtractionPhoenix, AZ

The process of having a tooth extraction

If your child needs to have a tooth extraction, there are several ways that the procedure can be conducted. First, we will numb the area of mouth we are extracting the tooth from so that your child does not feel any direct discomfort. Your child will feel pressure during the procedure but otherwise, remain relaxed and comfortable. If your child's tooth has matured and broken through the gums then we can use dental tools to wiggle the tooth and pull it out of the socket. Afterwards, the area will be thoroughly cleaned and gauze will be used to stop the bleeding while your child recovers. If your child's tooth is impacted or still below the surface, as is common with wisdom teeth, oral surgery may be necessary for removing it.

When completing this procedure in our Phoenix pediatric dental office, we typically create an incision in the gums so that there is a flap. The flap is gently lifted, granting us access to the impacted tooth. In many cases, we can wiggle the tooth and lift it out of the socket. If, however, there is bone or tissue on top of the tooth, it will need to be cut away first. When a tooth is particularly stubborn and not budging, we might need to break it into several pieces and remove it that way. Once the tooth has been removed from the socket, the area will be thoroughly cleaned before the flap is placed back down and sutured in place. Gauze is then used to stop the bleeding.

How to care for your child’s mouth after a tooth extraction

At Nett Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we perform a tooth extraction in the least invasive manner possible to shorten the recovery time. We will need the patient to remain in the office for around an hour after the procedure. During this time, we will verify the bleeding has slowed down and the anesthesia has worn off. It is important for the parent to monitor the child after the procedure as well. At home, keep an eye on your child and make sure he or she gets some rest. Be sure to have your child drink plenty of water, avoiding anything that is too hot or too cold as the teeth can be sensitive for the first couple of days.

We also recommend avoiding the use of a straw for the first few days, since the suction could cause the affected area to start bleeding. How the procedure was completed will influence how long it takes to recover. In general, the swelling will go down after a few days. In our family dentist office, we recommend taking ibuprofen to help reduce the swelling and to use an ice pack/cold compress for 15 minutes at a time. During the recovery, your child should eat foods that are high in nutrition and soft. Drinking a smoothie with vegetables, fruit, yogurt and protein powder is an excellent way to keep your child's nutrition levels up without needing to bite down on anything.

As your child adds other foods back in, be sure to start with things that are soft, like noodles, gradually working up to a full diet. While caring for your child's mouth after a tooth extraction, he or she will also need to keep the mouth as clean as possible. Have your child brush the surrounding teeth like normal and be careful to avoid the surgical site. Your child can also rinse with a mixture of water and baking soda (or an antibacterial mouthwash) to reduce the risk of an infection developing. We may want to see your child for a follow-up appointment as well.