While no two children are alike and every child’s treatment plan will vary from child to child, there are four main reasons why a dentist that practices pediatric dentistry in Noblesville will recommend a tooth be pulled:
- If your child’s permanent teeth are starting to break through (erupt), but there are still primary (also called “baby”) teeth intact and in the way
- If your child has suffered damage to teeth due to an injury or trauma that can not be repaired
- If your child is experiencing advanced tooth decay
- If it is necessary to prepare for an orthodontic treatment plan to address alignment or bite issues.
Whether your child will undergo a simple or surgical extraction, the staff at Bumble Kids Pediatric dentistry and all specialists in pediatric dentistry in Westfield will ensure your child is comfortable, calm and safe before, during and after the procedure. They’ll do that by preparing your child (and his parents!) for everything they can expect to happen, answering all your questions, and supporting you throughout your child’s recovery.
If your child has special needs such as physical, emotional, medical or developmental exceptionalities, be sure to let your dentist know so that they can plan to address your child’s unique needs. Your dentist will, for example, explain the availability and value of sedation dentistry to help your child to relax and remain comfortable at all times.
How to care for your child after an extraction
The first and most important tip on the topic of comforting your child after he has had a tooth pulled is to be sure to follow all advice given by the clinic that provides pediatric dentistry near you. Your child’s dentist will know his needs completely and will provide careful aftercare instructions. Here are five tips to follow alongside your dentist’s advice after your child undergoes tooth extractions in Westfield:
- Apply an ice pack against your child’s cheek for about 20 minutes to reduce inflammation. You can use a cold compress or a bag of frozen peas or ice wrapped in a clean tea towel
- For 24 hours after undergoing tooth extractions in Noblesville, your child should eat only soft foods. This is important to minimize the risk of interfering with the clot left behind after the extraction.
- Don’t hesitate to give your child over-the-counter pain medication, but be sure to dispense it as directed and ask a specialist in pediatric dentistry in Westfield if you have any concerns about frequency or dosage.
- Continue to follow good oral hygiene practices following a tooth extraction, but do so gently and while avoiding the site of the extraction
- To avoid interfering with the blood clot at the site of the extraction, be sure that your child doesn’t spit while or after brushing their teeth and don’t let them drink from a straw during recovery. The suction created by the use of a straw can dislodge the clot and cause a painful condition called dry socket.
Your dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment for your child after performing tooth extractions near you but don’t hesitate to contact your dentist at any time if you’re concerned about your child’s progress or recovery, or if you notice any symptoms of concern. If your child develops any severe or worsening swelling, severe or worsening pain, fever or chills, contact a dentist immediately. The staff at Bumble Kids Pediatric Dentistry will assess what’s going on and make sure that you both receive – on an emergency or urgent basis – receive all the information and attention you need to ensure a complete recovery without any complications.