Tooth Extractions An Overview
Tooth extractions may be recommended for a pediatric dental patient to address a severely damaged or infected primary tooth. Dr. Miller can perform a simple tooth extraction in the comfort of our Winter Park dental office. Other common reasons for a tooth extraction can include:
- Baby tooth remaining in place and impeding the natural development of a permanent tooth.
- Overcrowding of teeth.
- Addressing bite problems or as part of an orthodontic treatment plan.
- Impacted tooth.
In most cases, a local anesthetic can keep the patient comfortable, but Dr. Miller also offers sedation options as needed and will discuss the needs of your child prior to the extraction. If the extraction is more complex or a wisdom tooth, Dr. Miller can coordinate treatment with a local oral surgeon.
We understand that a tooth extraction may make your child feel anxious and our team makes every effort to help our young patients understand all aspects of the treatment. Dr. Miller will inform parents and caregivers about what to expect and how to prepare their child so that the procedure can go as smoothly as possible. We will also provide after treatment instructions for a speedy and healthy recovery. If dental sedation is being used, we will go over any special instructions for preparing your child to be sedated safely.
Tooth Extractions What to Expect
A tooth extraction is typically a simple procedure completed quickly in our office. We will go over the steps in the procedure so that everyone knows what to expect and answer any questions you or your child may have. If needed, a digital x-ray will be taken to provide a clear picture of the tooth and surrounding area. We will make sure your child is comfortable with a local anesthetic or administer dental sedation when part of the treatment plan.
Dr. Miller will clean the area and prepare the tooth for extraction by gently releasing the ligaments attaching it to the bone tissue. The tooth will be gently rocked back and forth in the socket until it is able to be pulled out without force. For primary teeth, the process is typically quick and should cause minimal discomfort or side effects afterward. The socket will be packed with sterile gauze to help a blood clot form and prevent any debris from entering the area.
You can expect some minor bleeding and possibly swelling of the gums or cheeks. In most cases, a soft diet is recommended for a few days to aid healing and minimize infection or increased bleeding and swelling.
If your child experiences sudden pain, a recurrence of bleeding or swelling is not receding in a day or two, contact our office so that we can determine if a re-check is necessary.
