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Aug
Pediatric Tooth Extractions: When Are They Needed?
Pediatric dental care can be challenging for busy families, but it’s part of your children’s overall health and well-being. Regular dental visits can help children avoid serious oral issues that can cost them their smile! Even with routine care, however, there may come a time when a problematic tooth has to be removed. If a pediatric tooth extraction is needed, you can trust Dr. Vostatek from Simply Kids Dental in Colorado Springs, Colorado, to perform this treatment. Here are some questions we’re often asked about pediatric tooth extractions.
When might a pediatric tooth extraction be needed?
Tooth extractions are generally the last resort when all other treatments have been exhausted to restore a tooth to full health. Dental fillings, bonding, and crowns are ways we restore worn, decayed, or damaged teeth to preserve your child’s smile.
Certain conditions, however, may warrant extraction to restore your child’s oral health. These include severe tooth decay, overcrowding, impacted teeth, or irreparable damage from accidental injury. Dr. Vostatek will only recommend extraction if it’s the best course of action for your child’s oral health.
Do ectopic teeth require extraction?
Ectopic eruption is a condition where a tooth erupts from an abnormal position, often because of inadequate space in the jawbone. Ectopic teeth are similar to impacted teeth. However, ectopic teeth grow in areas where they shouldn’t. Impacted teeth erupt in the right spot, except they can’t break through the gums. Sometimes, a tooth can be both impacted and ectopic.
We can correct many ectopic teeth with orthodontic braces. However, extraction may be the best course of action if ectopic teeth cause severe overcrowding. Our pediatric dentist will review your child’s teeth and advise the best course of action.
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New Patients: (719) 249-2030 | Existing Patients: (719) 598-5437
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Should baby teeth ever be extracted?
Normally, it’s best to let baby teeth fall out on their own, as it gives permanent teeth time to fully develop before erupting. If a baby tooth is severely compromised by decay, infection, or damage, it’s best to have it removed to protect the underlying permanent tooth. To prevent dental drift, Dr. Vostatek can save the space with a space maintainer so the permanent tooth can erupt properly.
Are pediatric tooth extractions painful?
No! We’ll numb your child’s mouth for this treatment. Rest assured, he won’t feel a thing! Sedation is also an option to keep children calm and comfortable for extraction procedures.
What happens after a child’s tooth is removed?
Children tend to recover quickly from tooth extractions, with initial healing taking place 24-48 hours after the procedure. During this time, your child should rest as much as possible to promote quicker healing. Mild gum swelling and soreness are common after an extraction and can be managed with cold compresses or children’s ibuprofen or similar medication.
We’ll give parents detailed instructions on oral hygiene, what their kids can eat, and how to care for the extraction site during the first few days to help their child recover smoothly.
If a primary tooth is removed, a space maintainer can preserve the space until it’s time for a permanent tooth to emerge.
Is tooth extraction safe for children?
Absolutely! When performed by an experienced children’s dentist, pediatric tooth extractions are perfectly safe for children. We prioritize your child’s safety and comfort when performing dental extractions at our office to ensure your little one has a positive dental experience.
Where can I go for children’s tooth extraction services near me?
For safe, painless pediatric tooth extractions in Colorado Springs, CO, bring your little ones to Simply Kids Dental! To schedule an appointment, call Dr. Vostatek at (719) 249-2030.
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Dr. Sean Vostatek
Dr. Sean Vostatek is a board-certified pediatric dentist specializing in treating infants, children, and those with special needs. He graduated from Texas A&M University and earned his dental degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Dr. Vostatek is an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Dental Association, and the Colorado Springs Dental Society. He is also a Diplomat of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Sean holds hospital privileges at Penrose-St. Francis Hospital, Audubon Surgery Center, and Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center in Salida, Colorado.