Tooth Extractions – Buffalo Grove, IL
Preserving Teeth & Promoting Gum Health
Although it may sound counterintuitive to say that by extracting a severely damaged or decayed tooth, we’re able to preserve your child’s teeth, that’s exactly what’s being done! We only suggest tooth extractions for our Buffalo Grove, IL patients whenever a tooth is damaged beyond repair. If we don’t remove it, your child may run the risk of developing an infection that could spread or lead to damage to the foundation of their smile.
Why Choose Capezio Pediatric Dentistry for Tooth Extractions?
- 25+ Year History of Serving Buffalo Grove
- Two Experienced Pediatric Dentists
- Conveniently Located Dental Office
Reasons for Kids’
Tooth Extractions
Some of the most common reasons why we may suggest a children’s tooth extraction include:
- Severe tooth decay has made a baby tooth incredibly fragile and irreparable.
- Trauma or an injury that has cracked, chipped, or fractured a permanent or baby tooth cannot be fixed.
- Stubborn baby teeth that are unable to fall out on their own.
- Impacted teeth are lodged below the gumline.
The Tooth
Extraction Process
At Capezio Pediatric Dentistry, we primarily perform tooth extractions on teeth that have already emerged above the gumline. If your child’s tooth still hasn’t erupted, we may refer them to a specialist to ensure the best results. During our treatment, we’ll gently lift the damaged tooth from its socket using a device called an elevator. Then, we’ll use dental forceps to wiggle it free of any connective tissues that may still be attached. If your child is prematurely losing a baby tooth, we may suggest placing an orthodontic space maintainer in the area to keep their other teeth from drifting out of place to fill the gap.
Aftercare for Your Child’s Tooth Extraction
Here are few aftercare tips to help your child make a quick and pain-free recovery from their procedure:
- Keep your child from biting their tongue or cheek as any numbness subsides, so avoid giving them solid food until they can feel their mouth again.
- Leave the gauze pack in place for about 45 minutes following their treatment to allow the blood to clot, we will give you plenty of extra gauze when you leave your appointment.
- Have your child avoid any activities that could dislodge the clot for 24 hours following their treatment.
- Bring down swelling by placing a cold compress on the face for 10 minutes on, 10 minutes off.
- Ensure your child sticks to a soft diet following their procedure, and make sure that they avoid chewing on the side of their mouth where their extraction site is located.
If you have any questions or concerns following your child’s treatment, don’t hesitate to call our dental office immediately!
Tooth Extractions FAQs
When you find out your child needs a tooth extraction, your mind may immediately flood with questions. What’s the recovery like? Is there anything I can do to speed up the healing time? Is there another option? Our Buffalo Grove dentist would be more than happy to answer all of your questions during your initial consultation. Prefer to do some research in the meantime? That’s okay too! Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about tooth extractions.
What’s the Recovery for Tooth Extractions Like?
After your child’s appointment, resting is the top-priority. After all, strenuous activities, like playing sports or running around outside can result in complications, like a dislodged blood clot. Instead, encourage them to opt for activities like reading, drawing, and watching TV. Throughout the day, check on their gauze and replace it as needed (we will provide you with clean gauze). Your little one should also avoid eating any hard, crunchy, or spicy foods. Soft meals, like oatmeal and soup, are preferable. Just make sure they aren’t too hot since this can result in some discomfort. Around the 3-day mark, the swelling should subside, and they should begin feeling better.
What Can I Do to Speed Up the Healing Time?
Naturally, you want your child to feel better as soon as possible. Luckily, there are several best practices that will help them recover in no time. To start, help them avoid things that can cause irritation, like spicy ingredients, hard foods, and mouthwash. They should also drink plenty of water, avoid using a straw, and get lots of rest to avoid a dislodged blood clot. To combat swelling and discomfort, a cold compress and a child-friendly pain reliever can do wonders.
Is There an Alternative to a Tooth Extraction?
Even baby teeth play an important role in your child’s development. After all, they help them chew all of their favorite foods and are a crucial component of their adorable smile! That’s why tooth extractions in Buffalo Grove are only recommended when absolutely necessary. With that being said, you can talk to their dentist about other options. For example, if the tooth has sustained extensive decay or damage, then root canal therapy may be an option. Although it’s very likely their dentist would’ve already considered this, they can at least talk you through why they recommend a tooth extraction instead.
How Should I Prepare My Child for Their Tooth Extraction?
One of the best things to do ahead of time is avoid using any negative words, like “pain” or “scary,” leading up to your child’s appointment. Instead, be open about all of the positives, like reducing discomfort, preventing overcrowding, and the like. You should also help them prepare by picking up any necessary medications beforehand (like pain relievers and anti-biotics) and stock up on soft, delicious, and nutrient-dense foods your child can easily enjoy following their tooth extraction.