Tooth Extractions for Kids in San Mateo, CA

Tooth extractions are usually a last resort when all other options for treating a damaged or decayed tooth have failed. When Dr. Vakili or Dr. Lam recommends a pediatric tooth extraction, they have determined that it is the best option to protect your child’s overall oral health and their other teeth.

Is a Pediatric Tooth Extraction Necessary for My Child?

In some cases, the extraction of a tooth is unavoidable if it is severely decayed, has advanced periodontal disease, or is broken or cracked in a way that can’t be repaired. A tooth may also need to be removed because it is impacted (trapped in the jawbone) or because it is being prepared for orthodontic treatment. We will discuss all options with you before proceeding with any pediatric tooth extractions and never move forward without parental consent.

The Day of the Extraction

On the day of the extraction, we will review your child’s X-rays and examine their mouth to confirm the condition of the tooth and the surrounding area. We apply a local anesthetic to numb the area and use an appropriate form of sedation to relax your child and alleviate any dental anxiety. We want your child to be free of fear and comfortable throughout the procedure.

Pediatric tooth extractions are performed by Drs. Vakili or Lam using specialized dental tools to gently rock the tooth back and forth in the socket to loosen it. When it is loosened, it is eased out of the socket. This process usually takes only a few minutes. Your child may be groggy for a few hours after tooth extraction, depending on the type of sedation used.

After Tooth Extraction: A Simple Plan for the First 3 Days

Gauze is placed over the extraction site to control any bleeding, which you will need to help your child keep in place at home. We provide you with detailed post-extraction instructions to help your child heal properly. Keep these tips in mind to help your child recover quickly with minimal discomfort:

Encourage Rest

• • Limit activity to relaxing, reading, watching television, and games. Nothing strenuous for the first 24 hours.
  • Monitor your child and make sure they don’t fall, as they may be dizzy for several hours after sedation.
  • Encourage naps.

Proper Diet

• • Offer cool soft foods like yogurt, hummus, mashed potatoes, soup, and scrambled eggs.
  • Avoid hard, crunchy, spicy, or hot foods.
  • Encourage plenty of fluids (water, juice), but never use a straw, as it can dislodge the clot due to suction.

Comfort Measures

• • Apply an ice pack to the cheek for 15-20 minutes on, 15-20 minutes off, for the first 1 to 2 days to reduce swelling.
  • Give pain relievers as directed by our office; avoid aspirin.
  • Expect swelling to peak around day 2 or 3.

Oral Hygiene

• • After 24 hours, gently brush your child’s teeth, being careful to avoid the extraction site.
  • After the first day, use warm (not hot) saltwater rinses to keep the area clean; have the child swish and drain the water into the sink.

A Few “Don’ts”

• • Do not let your child use a drinking straw, spit, rinse vigorously, or swish anything in their mouth for the first several days.
  • Do not let them touch or poke at the extraction site.
  • Do not let them blow their nose vigorously.

Pediatric Tooth Extractions FAQs

Does my child need a “spacer” after a baby molar extraction?

They might. It depends on how old your child is, how developed the permanent tooth is, and when the baby tooth is extracted. We will discuss the options with you at your child’s evaluation.

What can my child eat after an extraction?

Soft, cool foods like yogurt, hummus, pudding, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and pureed vegetables are best for the first few days. As the site heals, you can gradually add firmer foods over the next few weeks.

How long does bleeding last?

Bleeding may continue for up to an hour following extraction, with some minor oozing for up to 24 hours. However, if bleeding persists or remains heavy beyond the first 24 hours, contact our office at San Mateo Pediatric Dentist Office Phone Number 650-372-9292.

When are extractions recommended for braces?

There are several reasons an orthodontist may recommend pediatric tooth extractions before beginning orthodontic treatment, including:

• To eliminate overcrowding
• When teeth protrude excessively
• To address major bite issues that can’t be resolved with braces alone
• If an impacted tooth will interfere with treatment

Are tooth extractions covered by insurance?

It depends on the type of dental insurance and its coverage limits. If a tooth extraction is deemed medically necessary, dental insurance will cover it in part or in full. However, if the procedure is considered cosmetic, your insurance may not cover the cost. Please check with your insurance carrier to determine whether your policy covers pediatric tooth extractions and, if so, under what circumstances.

If your child’s tooth is severely damaged or decayed, we will do everything in our power to save it. If that isn’t possible, we will extract the tooth using the latest techniques and the proper level of sedation for your child’s comfort and your peace of mind. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, please contact our office at San Mateo Pediatric Dentist Office Phone Number 650-372-9292 or use our easy online scheduling form.