Dental Extractions
Silver Spring, Maryland
Pediatric Dental Extractions
At My Kids Dental Center, we make every effort to save damaged teeth and maintain healthy smiles. However, there are times dental extraction may be the only viable option to restore your child's oral health. Dr. Cargill and her compassionate team will do everything possible to ensure your little one's experience is positive and free of stress. Here's all you need to know about why your child would require tooth extraction and what to expect.
How We Help You and Your Child Feel Right at Home
My Kids Dental Center is more than a pediatric dentistry practice. It is a safe and happy place that we hope you and your child will come to love. We've considered every detail and worked hard to create an exciting and enjoyable space for your little one. From our seamless transitions to our beautiful office and cutting-edge, compassionate care, expect a one-of-its-kind pediatric dentistry experience!
Why Would Your Child Require Tooth Extraction?
Dr. Cargill, our highly experienced pediatric dentist, may recommend a dental extraction if a tooth suffers extensive decay that cannot be resolved using dental fillings or a baby root canal or if a tooth is damaged beyond repair due to injury or trauma. She may also recommend removing a tooth if it's blocking its permanent replacement from coming in.
If your child has overcrowded teeth, selective extractions may be necessary as a component of a collaborative orthodontic treatment plan to make room for the remaining teeth to shift into alignment.
What Is the Pediatric Tooth Extraction Procedure?
Let us take you through the extraction process step by step. Dr. Cargill will start by administering a local anesthetic to ensure that your little one's procedure is painless. She also offers nitrous oxide sedation, whenever needed, to help your child relax during treatment.
Pediatric tooth extractions are usually simple. Dr. Cargill will loosen the affected tooth using an instrument called an elevator and use forceps to gently remove it from its socket. Your child should be comfortable throughout the procedure.
What Happens After a Tooth Extraction?
Most children experience minimal to no pain after the procedure and can resume their daily routines shortly after. However, if your child has minor discomfort or swelling, cold compresses can provide relief. Make sure your child drinks plenty of liquids, eats soft foods, and refrains from using a straw for the first 24 hours. Avoid chewing on the side of the extracted tooth for a few days. If you have any questions or concerns, make sure to let us know.
What Is a Space Maintainer?
If your child needs to have a baby tooth pulled out before the permanent replacement is ready to come, Dr. Cargill may recommend a space maintainer. The orthodontic device will prevent the neighboring teeth from shifting out of alignment and will hold the space needed for the adult tooth to come in the correct position when it's time. Space maintainers have been shown to reduce the need for orthodontic treatments down the road.
Pediatric Dental Extractions Near Me in Silver Spring, MD
If your child's tooth is damaged or painful, contact My Kids Dental Center for a consultation. Dr. Cargill never spares any effort to save a damaged tooth. However, if your child requires tooth extraction, you can count on her for compassionate, gentle care. We invite you to contact our Silver Spring office to schedule your child's dental appointment or request one online today!