At Willowdaile Family Dentistry, we strive to preserve your child’s natural teeth whenever possible. However, there are cases where a tooth extraction is the best course of action to maintain their oral health. A gentle and carefully planned tooth removal can help prevent future complications and support your child’s developing smile.

Reasons for Pediatric Tooth Extractions

There are several reasons why our dentists may recommend a tooth extraction for your child. Some of the most common include:

• Severe Decay: When a baby tooth is too damaged by decay to be restored with a filling or crown, removing it can prevent infection from spreading to nearby teeth.
• Impeding Permanent Tooth Eruption: Sometimes, a baby tooth remains in place longer than it should, blocking a permanent tooth from coming in properly. Extracting the baby tooth allows the permanent tooth to emerge naturally.
• Orthodontic Treatment: Some children require extractions to create space for proper tooth alignment and avoid crowding before beginning orthodontic treatment.
• Injury or Trauma: Accidents can result in fractured or displaced teeth. If a tooth is beyond repair, removal may be necessary to prevent pain or complications.
• Infection or Abscess: Infections that cannot be treated with antibiotics or a pulpotomy may require extraction to protect overall oral health.

What to Expect During the Procedure

We understand that having a tooth removed can be intimidating for children. Our team takes a gentle and compassionate approach to ensure their comfort. Before the extraction, we will numb the area with a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort. If needed, our dentists will carefully loosen the tooth before removing it to ensure a smooth and painless experience.

For particularly anxious children, sedation options may be available to help them remain relaxed throughout the procedure. Our goal is to make the process as easy and stress-free as possible for both you and your child.

Post-Extraction Care & Healing

After the extraction, we will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to promote proper healing. It is important to keep the area clean and avoid drinking through a straw for the first few days to prevent complications. Your child may experience mild soreness, which can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Soft foods and plenty of rest will aid in a smooth recovery.

If you have any questions about pediatric tooth extractions in Durham, North Carolina, or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Aman Masoomi or Dr. Devon Austin, please contact our office at 919-479-5800. We are committed to providing gentle, high-quality care to help your child maintain a healthy and happy smile.