BRENT CAPLE PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY IN ROGERS, AR
Extractions
When are tooth extractions necessary?
Tooth extractions are necessary when a tooth is decayed or damaged beyond repair.
Although there are many interventions available for repairing or restoring a tooth with minor decay, there are times when a tooth extraction is necessary for the ultimate health and comfort of the patient.
If a tooth becomes too damaged from a traumatic incident or if a tooth is severely decayed and beyond repair, an extraction may be necessary. Dr. Caple will only recommend a tooth be extracted if all other options to restore the tooth are ruled out. The following conditions may indicate that your child needs a tooth extraction:
Severe decay
Damage by injury or trauma
Primary teeth that are crowding adult teeth
To aid in orthodontic treatment
What is a tooth extraction like?
If a tooth or teeth require extraction, Dr. Caple will first give the patient an anesthetic injection in the surrounding area of the tooth. The tooth is then loosened from the bone and socket through the use of an instrument called an elevator. Your child will not feel pain during this process, but may experience the sensation of pressure that is being put on your tooth and bone.
At the office of Brent Caple, DDS, pediatric dentist in Rogers, AR, our team offers various options for conscious sedation dentistry in order to ensure every patient is as comfortable as possible during the procedure. If you have questions or concerns about the conscious sedation dentistry options available during your tooth extraction, please discuss your questions and concerns with Dr. Caple during your next visit.
After the tooth is removed, Dr. Caple will clear out any infected tissue, clean out the socket, deal with any loose tooth fragments or sharp bones, and clean up the area.
What aftercare is needed for tooth extractions?
After a tooth extraction, it will take a few days to fully recover. Preventing infection and controlling bleeding and discomfort are main priorities during the recovery time. Please follow the aftercare instructions carefully:
To protect the blood clot, maintain gentle pressure by biting on cotton or gauze until the bleeding has stopped. Slight oozing of blood is to be expected. If bleeding does not stop within 4 hours, continue pressure with cotton or a moistened tea bag, and call our office.
Do not rinse or use mouthwash for 24 hours. After 24 hours, you may rinse with warm salt water (one half teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water) a few times a day. Stay away from commercial mouthwashes during the healing process.
Discomfort is normal following dental surgery. Children’s ibuprofen or Tylenol will relive the discomfort.
After 24 hours, a toothbrush may be gently used in the surgical area. A clean mouth heals faster.
Adequate food and fluid intake following surgery of extractions is most important. If your child wants something immediately after the surgery, then cold liquids work best, such as a milkshake (do not drink through a straw). Later, liquids and soft food may be taken until your child is able to resume the normal diet.
Avoid excessive physical activity the day of surgery. Do not pick at the surgical area and do not drink out of a straw, as this may dislodge the clot.
To learn more about tooth extractions for children and to schedule an appointment at the office of pediatric dentist, Dr. Brent Caple, please request an appointment online or call our office today. Dr. Caple’s pediatric dental clinic in Rogers, Arkansas, serves families across Northwest Arkansas. We are always accepting new patients, and look forward to partnering with you to help your child enjoy a lifetime of oral and dental health.
At Dr. Brent Caple’s pediatric dental office, our goal is your child’s health. We ensure that all of our technology and procedures are safe and effective tools to promote your child’s oral and dental health.
To schedule an appointment at the office of Brent Caple, DDS, pediatric dentist serving Northwest Arkansas, request an appointment online or call our office today.