Taking your child to the dentist for tooth extraction is often a scary and intimidating experience. It’s important to be aware of what to expect and to be prepared for the procedure.
Knowing the facts about tooth extractions and how to prepare your child for the appointment can help ease the tension and make the experience less overwhelming. This article will provide you with the information you need to know to properly prepare your child for a tooth extraction. We will discuss the reasons why tooth extraction may be necessary, the types of extractions available, the potential risks and complications, and how you can help your child prepare for the appointment.
By understanding the procedure and taking the necessary steps to ensure your child’s comfort, you can help make the experience a positive one.
What is a tooth extraction?
A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth due to decay, injury, or other factors. The removal of a tooth will cause the affected area to be painful, swollen, and sensitive for a short period of time. The extraction will leave a mark on the affected area that will fade within one to two weeks.
Tooth extractions are usually scheduled at the same time as dental cleanings. If a tooth has become infected or damaged beyond the point of being able to be salvaged, tooth extraction may be an option.
They are most frequently performed on children between the ages of five and nine. Babies and toddlers are likely to experience more pain than older children due to their smaller teeth and jaw structure. They may also have difficulty controlling their body’s response to pain. A child’s level of fear regarding a tooth extraction may also play a role in how they react to the procedure.
Reasons for a tooth extraction
A tooth may become infected due to decay, traumatic injury, or oral surgery. An infection can cause the tooth to decay more quickly, spreading infection throughout the jaw bone.
Tooth decay results from the buildup of sugar and bacteria in the teeth. The bacteria can eat away at the tooth’s outer layer, creating a sore that may need to be extracted. Some of the other potential reasons for tooth extraction are:
- Teeth that are crowded or overlapping teeth that are in the way of a healthy tooth.
- Fractured teeth. A tooth may fracture due to trauma, often during a fall or other accident.
- Teeth that have grown too large affect the structure of the jawbone.
- Injuries or diseases of the mouth that affect the teeth and gums, such as cystic fibrosis or certain forms of cancer.
- Mouth sores, such as chronic oral hygiene disease.
Potential risks and complications
All procedures carry some degree of risk. This is true whether you have a tooth extraction or not. The same is true of dental extractions. The only difference is that the dental risks are much greater than the extraction risks.
Depending on the type of extraction performed, the procedure carries an increased risk of pain and bleeding. Infection is a potential risk for all tooth extractions, and the risk is greater for surgical extractions. The risk is greatest for the group of people who will require major surgeries like hip replacements and knee replacements.
There is also a risk of nerve damage during dental extractions. A tooth extraction may damage the nerves connected to the affected tooth, making it difficult or impossible for your child to chew properly or to close their mouth. Numbness or tingling in the lip or chin area may also occur.
Preparing your child for the appointment
At a young age, your child will have fewer teeth than the rest of their family members. This means they will have more extractions than others in their age group. Children are also more likely to experience oral problems, like cavities and gum disease, than adults are. Both of these facts make it even more important for your child to get regular dental checkups and cleanings.
When your child is old enough to begin getting proper dental checkups and to see the dentist, use this opportunity to talk to your child about the importance of dental hygiene and the procedure of tooth extraction. There are a few things you can do to help make the experience less overwhelming for your child.
- Make the appointment as stress-free as possible for your child. The less stress he or she experiences, the better.
- Provide your child with a list of questions to ask the dentist during the appointment.
- Schedule the appointment at the same time every week.
- Let your child know that he or she can ask questions and be afraid if he or she needs to be.
- If your child is afraid of the dentist, talk to them about what is happening during the procedure and what the dentist is doing.
- Help your child build a mental picture of his or her teeth. Explain the anatomy of the teeth and how the teeth work.
- Ensure your child knows how to wash his or her hands before going to the bathroom and brushing his or her teeth.
- Make sure your child knows where the phone is and how to call for help if he or she needs it.
Tooth Extractions in Roslyn Heights
A tooth extraction is a serious procedure that can cause pain and discomfort for your child. You can help ease your child’s apprehension by preparing him or her for the experience by discussing what to expect during the procedure and what you will do to help your child feel more relaxed.
To learn more about tooth extractions or to schedule an appointment, contact us at 516-625-3806.