A child losing their baby teeth is a monumental moment for many parents. Their loved one is growing up, so they may feel some excitement and sadness among other emotions. But for you, what if their pediatric dentist recommends pulling a tiny tooth? It’s normal for you to be a bit skeptical, but it can be a beneficial treatment for some cases. Keep reading to learn how and what you can do to prepare.
Why Does My Child Need a Baby Tooth Removed?
The only way to know exactly why your child may need a baby tooth extracted is by talking to their dentist. They will get a better understanding of their oral health and let you know why it may be necessary. However, some reasons are:
- A large cavity that can’t be fixed. When decay is deep enough, having it pulled can help prevent it from spreading.
- An injury can cause chips or cracks in your child’s tooth. In some cases, it may even get knocked out, and sometimes removing it instead can avoid any harm to the permanent teeth underneath.
- To help prepare for orthodontic treatment by allowing for the proper eruption of adult teeth.
- Severe gum disease or extra/abnormally shaped teeth are rare scenarios, but they are true for some children. Pulling them can help preserve their oral health.
What Can I Do to Help My Child Prepare?
You and your child may be a bit nervous about an upcoming extraction, but there are things you can do to help them prepare. One of the best things is to bring a comfort item for them. A small plush or blanket can make a difference in helping your child get through the procedure.
It might also be helpful to let your child’s provider talk through the procedure with them. Many offices know how kids may be scared of the dentist, so they have adjusted how they talk about treatments to make them sound more appealing and less stressful.
How Can I Help My Child Heal After Their Procedure?
Once your loved one has their baby tooth extracted, you’ll be given some post-op instructions. Be sure to follow them to the letter to ensure a smooth recovery. Some directions might be switching to a soft food diet for the first few days, such as smoothies, mashed potatoes, and cooked vegetables.
When handing them something to drink, make sure they don’t use a straw. A blood clot forms over the extraction site to help with healing, but it can get dislodged with the sucking motion.
Although you might’ve been worried about your child’s tooth extraction, it can be beneficial for their oral health for a variety of reasons. Partner with their pediatric dentist to learn why it’s right for your loved one. Then follow the tips above to make it as easy as possible for them.
About the Practice
At Capezio Pediatric Dentistry, your child is in the expert care of Dr. Nicholas Capezio and Dr. Ted Loiben. We are here to help growing smiles in the community be their best through a wide range of treatments. While a tooth extraction may not sound the most desirable for your loved one, our goal is to make it as easy as possible for them. If you want to learn more about this procedure, schedule an appointment or call our office at (847) 459-9100.