Extractions

Not all teeth can remain in the mouth throughout childhood. Sometimes extraction is the BEST option and recommended in several dental conditions, including:

• Trauma from a knock or bump,
• Non- treatable dental infections,
• ‘Stuck baby’ or extra teeth,
• Encourage proper orthodontic development and positioning for adult teeth.

Prior to extracting a baby tooth, an x-ray may be required to assess the surrounding bone, presence and positioning of the baby and adult tooth. The process of removing a baby tooth is similar to an adult’s, with topical anaesthetic ‘numbing’ the gum before injection. This cream, in combination with the clinician’s gentle reassurance to your child relaxes them before placing the pain free injection ‘sleepy juice’. The process ensures the tooth can be loosened with movements and pressure comfortably for your child! Once the tooth is loose, it can be removed and gauze placed to stop the bleeding. The clinician then checks the socket to ensure the clot has formed and no pieces of tooth remain. The extracted baby tooth is then washed and placed in a special box for the tooth fairy to pick up. Rumour has it that extracted teeth at the dentist get a higher rate from the tooth fairy!

After care for the socket is very important to prevent infection and the clinician will explain these instructions and provide you a printed copy. Following the appointment your child will be numb and it is important to ensure they do not bite or chew their lip, tongue or cheek as it will be sore until the anaesthetic wears off. Limited activity is advised to prevent dislodging the clot. Finally, eating soft cool foods on the non-affected side is best as sharp foods can dig into the socket and hot foods can burn your child’s mouth.

Although extraction may be the best option, there are still risks and complications associated that will be discussed as per your child and their needs’. Pain may be mild and temporary once the numbness wears off and this can usually be managed with over the counter medicine such as Panadol or Nurofen. Bleeding can also occur if the clot is disturbed. Loss of space due to premature loss of baby tooth can also occur in some children, however, this and space maintenance options will be discussed if appropriate. At Avenue Dental we have an excellent team experienced in baby teeth extractions.