Pediatric Tooth Extractions - Lorton, VA

Our pediatric dental team may suggest the removal of your child's tooth if it has suffered serious damage. If your child's tooth has been harmed due to an accident, injury or comprehensive decay, then it might be most beneficial for their overall oral health and smile to have a tooth extraction at our Lorton clinic. Our pediatric dentist will thoroughly check your child's mouth to decide whether this procedure is suitable.

When are Tooth Extractions Required in Children?

Common motivations for a tooth extraction include:

• Massive Tooth Decay – Children's teeth are more susceptible to cavities, often forming on their molars due to delicate enamel and inconsistent oral care routines. Ignored decay can result in serious complications and potentially harm the growth of adult teeth. Our pediatric dentist might propose an extraction for such scenarios.
• Injuries or Trauma – Accidents or falls could harm your child's teeth. If the damage is beyond repair, despite the possibility of a pulpotomy and dental crown, an extraction might be suggested along with a space maintainer.
• Gum Disease – This is caused by infection and inflammation. If ignored, it could harm the gums and jawbone, causing loose teeth that need extraction.
• Impacted Wisdom Teeth – The last teeth to arrive are wisdom teeth or third molars. If they don't properly erupt, they need to be extracted to prevent other oral issues such as infection, tooth damage and tooth misalignment.
• Orthodontic Treatments – Overcrowded teeth or those preventing the eruption of permanent teeth might need extraction for the proper eruption and alignment of permanent teeth.

What is the Procedure for Tooth Extraction?

Our pediatric dentist will initiate the process by taking necessary x-rays to make the extraction accurate and minimally invasive. The child's comfort is ensured by using local anesthetic or other forms of sedation. The extraction is done using delicate tools, ensuring no damage to the bone or surrounding tissue. Stitches, sterile gauze and space maintainers are provided as required.

After Extraction Care

Post extraction, the child might feel some discomfort which should subside in a few days. Here are some recommendations:

• Ensure that your child takes all prescribed medications. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain medications like Tylenol or ibuprofen can be used to ease discomfort. Make sure they follow the instructions for any prescribed antibiotics.
• Use an ice pack or cold compress over the extraction site to manage discomfort and swelling.
• Follow a soft diet (cooked vegetables, smoothies, mashed potatoes, etc.).
• Avoid drinking from a straw or vigorous spitting for about a week post-procedure.

For any concerns about your child's aftercare, our team is ready to help. Feel free to contact us.

Schedule A Lorton Pediatric Tooth extraction

For more details about pediatric tooth extractions in Lorton, VA, or to book an appointment with our pediatric dentist, feel free to call us today at Smileworld Pediatric Dentistry on (703) 344-0590.