Oral Surgery
Gentle & Expert Care for Your Child’s Dental Needs
What Is Oral Surgery for Children?
Oral surgery includes a range of procedures performed by a pediatric dentist to address serious dental issues. These procedures may be necessary when a child experiences severe tooth decay, dental trauma, or requires intervention for proper jaw and teeth development. Our team ensures that every procedure is done with precision and care, using child-friendly techniques to minimize discomfort.
When Does a Child Need a Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extractions are sometimes necessary to maintain your child’s oral health and proper dental development. Some common reasons for extractions include:
- Severe Tooth Decay: When a cavity is too large for a filling or crown, an extraction may be required to prevent infection.
- Stubborn Baby Teeth: If a baby tooth isn’t falling out naturally and is blocking the permanent tooth from coming in, extraction helps ensure proper alignment.
- Overcrowding: Sometimes, teeth need to be removed as part of orthodontic treatment to make room for proper alignment.
- Infected or Damaged Teeth: Teeth that have suffered trauma from accidents or infections may need to be removed to protect overall oral health.
What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction
Our team ensures that every extraction is performed with care using child-friendly techniques to minimize discomfort.
- Before the procedure, we will examine the tooth, take necessary X-rays, and determine the best approach.
- Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, ensuring a pain-free experience.
- If needed, sedation options are available for children who may feel anxious.
- The extraction process is quick and gentle, followed by detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
Post-Extraction Care & Recovery
After a tooth extraction, proper care is essential to promote healing and prevent complications.
- Have your child rest for the day and avoid strenuous activities.
- To support healing, soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and smoothies are best for the first few hours and as the dentist recommends.
- Encourage gentle brushing while avoiding the extraction site.
- Avoid using straws or spitting forcefully to prevent dry socket.
- If there is mild discomfort, it can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief as recommended by the dentist.
Oral Surgery FAQ
Everything You Need to Know
Is oral surgery safe for children?
Yes, oral surgery for kids is completely safe when performed by experienced pediatric dentists. We use advanced techniques and sedation options to ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience.
Will my child feel pain during oral surgery?
No, local anesthesia and sedation options are available to keep your child pain-free and relaxed throughout the procedure.
How long does recovery take after oral surgery?
Recovery time depends on the type of procedure, but most children heal within a few days. Following post-operative care instructions helps ensure a smooth recovery.
Is a tooth extraction painful for kids?
No, the procedure is completely painless thanks to local anesthesia. For children with dental anxiety, sedation options can help them feel more relaxed.
What should I do if my child is in pain after the extraction?
Some mild soreness is normal, and over-the-counter children’s pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) can help. If pain persists beyond a few days, contact our office.
Will my child need a space maintainer after a tooth extraction?
If a baby tooth is removed too early, a space maintainer may be recommended to keep the proper spacing for the adult tooth to come in correctly.
Keep Your Child’s Smile Bright & Healthy!
Schedule a dental cleaning today and protect your child’s teeth from cavities with gentle, expert care.
