Kid’s Tooth Extractions and Dental Space Maintainer Treatment in Garland, Tx

By about age three, most kids have a full set of primary teeth. Baby teeth have an important function in addition to chewing. They are placeholders for secondary teeth. Sometimes though, extraction of a tooth is necessary. In that case, Garland, TX dentist, Dr. Boppana, may recommend a dental space maintainer for the child, to support oral development until adult teeth come in.

Does it hurt my kid when you extract tooth

GENTLE BABY TOOTH EXTRACTION

Early dental experiences form a lifetime attitude toward dental care. It is especially important that pediatric tooth extraction be handled with gentleness, empathy, and good humor. With nearly a decade of clinical experience and as a mother herself, Dr. Boppana understands.

If a tooth is too badly decayed to be saved with pulpotomy or root canal therapy, or fractured beyond repair, extraction is the best choice. The procedure requires only local numbing, and an appointment usually lasts about 20 to 40 minutes.

Kids heal quickly, so aftercare is straightforward.

  • Have the child bite on clean gauze until bleeding stops.
  • Give a children’s over-the-counter analgesic to ease jaw soreness.
  • Apply an ice pack to swollen areas for about 20 minutes.
  • Give only soft foods for the first 24 hours.
  • Do not allow drinking from a straw.
  • Continue brushing and flossing, but avoid the extraction site until it is fully healed.

Why do kid’s need Teeth Space Maintainers?

A space maintainer can be a good follow up to premature tooth loss. Baby teeth rely on one another for support. Gaps allow existing teeth to become loose and move into incorrect spaces. This, in turn, guides emerging teeth into improper position.

Maintainers are custom-fit stainless steel appliances that hold space for secondary teeth. A fixed maintainer is more appropriate for a younger child. It is attached with dental cement. Most children adapt quickly to wearing a space maintainer. However, it is important to avoid hard candy and chewing gum during the wearing period.

Dr. Boppana provides children’s dentistry that addresses immediate oral issues and safeguards future dental health. Call us at (469)804-5677 to schedule.