Wiggles

Are your child's dental concerns causing worry? At Chapin Pediatric and Teen Dentistry, we understand the importance of providing gentle and effective solutions for all dental needs. When it comes to tooth extractions, or as we affectionately call them, "wiggles," our experienced team is here to ensure a stress-free experience for your child.

Reasons for Tooth Extraction in Children

There are several reasons why a tooth extraction may be necessary for children, including:

• Tooth Decay: Tooth decay is a prevalent reason for tooth extraction in children. When decay advances extensively and compromises the tooth's structure beyond repair, extraction becomes necessary to prevent further damage and potential infection. Prompt extraction helps safeguard the overall oral health of the child and prevents the spread of decay to surrounding teeth.
• Orthodontic Treatment: Tooth extractions may be part of orthodontic treatment plans to address overcrowding and achieve proper alignment of the teeth.
• Injury or Trauma: Traumatic dental injuries, like fractures or avulsion, may require tooth extraction if traditional dental treatments aren't feasible. Often encountered in childhood during playtime accidents or falls, these incidents may prompt intervention from our pediatric dentist in Chapin, SC. We might recommend pediatric pulp therapy or fitting a dental crown to restore the damaged tooth. However, in some cases, extraction becomes necessary. In such instances, the extracted tooth may be replaced with a space maintainer until the permanent tooth emerges.

Procedure

At Chapin Pediatric and Teen Dentistry, the extraction process for primary teeth is similar to that of adults, with a strong focus on ensuring the child's comfort and calmness. Our team utilizes advanced techniques, including x-rays, to anticipate and address any potential complications by assessing tooth roots and surrounding bone structure. We typically use local anesthesia for primary tooth extractions at Chapin Pediatric and Teen Dentistry, ensuring pain relief without unconsciousness. Options like nitrous oxide or oral medications are available for anxious children. Following anesthesia, our skilled dentist delicately removes the tooth using small instruments to minimize disruption to the surrounding bone. After extraction, we apply sterile gauze to control bleeding, and sutures may be used as needed.

After tooth removal, it's normal for children to experience moderate pain, which typically subsides within a few days. Encouraging children to stick to soft foods for a few days following tooth removal can aid in the healing process. Although they may not initially prefer options like cooked vegetables, mashed potatoes, or smoothies, consuming these foods can promote recovery. Parents should remind children to avoid using a straw for drinking or spitting and refrain from participating in strenuous activities for at least a week after the procedure. These precautions are crucial to prevent dislodging of the blood clot at the extraction site, which could lead to a dry socket requiring additional dental care.

The atmosphere at Chapin Pediatric and Teen Dentistry has been specifically designed to alleviate fear and ensure a rewarding experience. Children can enjoy amenities such as game areas with iPads and TVs above the exam dental chair.

Say goodbye to worries and hello to healthy smiles! With our positive reviews and established methods, we've become a trusted pediatric dentist in Chapin. Skip the online search for "kids dentist near me" and come see us today! Schedule an appointment with our skilled team and discover why so many families rely on our expertise.