There are a number of reasons that Dr. Kristi may recommend a baby tooth extraction, or removal. Tooth decay, infection, trauma or emerging permanent teeth that are crowding baby teeth are just some of the possible conditions that may require extraction.

When Dr. Kristi believes that an extraction may be necessary, she will have x-ray images taken in our office to assess the position of the tooth and the condition of the surrounding bone. If the doctor decides to proceed with the extraction, she will first numb the area to lessen any discomfort. Nitrous oxide anesthesia may also be used to help make the child more comfortable. After the extraction, she will provide you with verbal and written post-operative instructions and she will let you know if and when to come back for a follow-up visit. Following tooth extraction, a small amount of bleeding is normal. Your child will be asked to bite down gently on a piece of sterile gauze to minimize bleeding. The formation of a blood clot will slowly fill in the bone where the tooth was located.

Some after-extraction guidelines:

• Please note that the area may remain numb for a few hours, so warn your child against biting, sucking or playing with the area until all sensation returns.
• To avoid dislodging the clot forming where the tooth was located, excessive activity (running, jumping, swimming, etc.) should be avoided for the rest of the day.
• Take extra caution to avoid the extraction area when brushing and flossing.
• Do not allow your child to insert any objects into the mouth, such as fingers or pencils.
• Do not allow eating any hard or sharp foods, like chips, crackers, nuts, candies, etc., until the extraction site is healed.