Extractions can be terrifying for adults, so what should people consider when their child needs a tooth pulled? Some parents and grandparents may remember the last time they went to the dentist and what reasonable parent would put their child through that kind of ordeal? This isn’t the 20th century anymore; Dentistry has improved by leaps and bounds.
But what should each parent and their children keep in mind before seeing a Kids Dentist? Does the dentist need to specialize solely in removing teeth? Does he or she need special instruments?
Pediatric dentists pull teeth too
It’s hard to fathom but children need teeth pulled sometimes. It may be due to improper hygiene or poor genetics. It could be due to trauma from playing sports.
No matter what the reason is, each child deserves the best dental care possible and a Kids Dentist can provide that. Just like pediatric doctors, children’s dentistry involves the growth and development of the child. The only difference is that children’s dentistry focuses on the oral health and development of the child, while general pediatrics focus on the body.
Tips to remember after a tooth is extracted
The first thing a child must remember is to raise their head and stay calm. If the dentist pulls several teeth, the person’s cheek will swell (this is normal). Swelling is at its maximum after 24 hours and can last up to a week.
To decrease swelling, parents can put ice on their child’s cheek but not directly on his or her skin. Children should also not drink anything that could irritate their mouth and the open “pockets” (where the tooth once stood). Do not rinse your child’s mouth out with a mouthwash containing alcohol.
If the pain is too pronounced, if your son or daughter bleeds heavily or has a fever, do not hesitate and contact their dentist promptly.
Contraindications
A tooth removal may be delayed if unfavorable circumstances do not provide the best conditions for such an act. This is particularly the case when the child is swollen already. This is a sign of infection and must be treated before moving forward with the extraction.
Children with allergies or sinusitis must have the issue under control before having a tooth pulled. Lastly, children with leukemia or other associated diseases should discuss options beforehand. Visit us for more details.
