Why are teeth extracted?

When a tooth has been damaged by decay to a certain point, or if a tooth has suffered an irreparable chip or break, it will need to be extracted. Other potential issues that may lead to your child needing a tooth to be extracted are:

• Gum disease which leads to bone loss

• Poorly positioned teeth

• Extra teeth that the mouth does not have room for

We have the ability to perform most extractions right here in our office. If an extraction requires additional care that we are unable to provide we will gladly refer you to our trusted oral surgeons.

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In Cause of Trauma

• Rinse mouth with water

• Cold compress applied to the skin

• Retrieve broken tooth fragment

• Place chipped piece back on the tooth or in a glass of milk

• Come see us immediately

Post Extraction Instructions

After having a tooth extracted it is normal to experience some discomfort. We will pack the extraction site with gauze to protect the it and help mitigate any bleeding that might take place. Bleeding should stop 8-12 hours after extraction. Please call us if significant bleeding occurs after this period.

Mild analgesics are fine to help with any pain that occurs as a result of the extraction.

Rinsing after meals with a salt water solution is a great way to ensure that the site stays clean and free of debris.

Depending on whether the tooth is a baby tooth or an adult tooth we will discuss replacement options. If it is a baby tooth and the adult tooth is due to come in in a year or two it will probably be easier to await the adult tooth. We can recommend any treatments that will ensure proper oral health until that time. If the tooth is an adult tooth it would be wise to consider permanent replacement options such as bridges or dental implants.