Tooth extraction is never our first choice for dental treatment, but sometimes they are the best option. This can be especially true for children, where we may remove a baby tooth as part of orthodontic or other treatment.
However, most kids are terrified of getting a tooth pulled, and we totally understand why! The dentist can already be scary for children, let alone the idea of getting a tooth removed.
Still, it’s important to help ease your child’s anxiety and properly prepare them for dental treatment. This is the best way to ensure a smooth process and safe recovery.
Keep reading to learn everything about preparing a child for tooth extraction.
Why We Perform Tooth Extraction for Children
Tooth extraction involves removing a tooth completely. With adult teeth, this option is reserved for severe cases when the tooth is beyond repair. Tooth extraction in children is actually more common.
Why extract teeth in children? Sometimes it’s to prepare their mouth for orthodontics, other times it may be for another dental treatment. Regardless of the reason, we only perform kids’ tooth extractions when it is the best possible choice.
Getting a baby tooth extracted may sound scary, but we make sure your child is comfortable and safe. We start by numbing the area. Then, we will gently loosen the tooth with an elevator. When it’s adequately loosened, we pull it out with forceps. Thanks to the numbing, the procedure is pain-free. We also offer sedation dentistry options.
Preparing Your Child for Tooth Extraction
If your child will need a tooth removed, then you need to know how to prepare your child for tooth extraction. Here are a few tips:
- Don’t leave them in the dark. Talk about the procedure and the reason for it.
- Reiterate that the process is pain-free, and discuss how the dentist ensures they are not in pain.
- Hear your child out as they speak about their fears. Let them finish before rationalizing with them.
- Collaborate with your dentist to discuss aftercare and how your child can help their mouth heal.
- Bring your child along to pick out supplies for recovery (maybe throw in a small fun surprise).
Children’s Dentist in Quincy and Norwell
The best way to prepare your child for tooth extraction is by choosing a dentist in Quincy. Our dedicated team at Advanced Dental Arts offers children’s dentistry in Quincy and Norwell that you can count on. We go the extra mile to create a warm, welcoming environment for kids, and we are here to help with preparing your child for tooth extraction as well.
Schedule your appointment with our kids dentist in Quincy and Norwell today!