Pediatric Dental Extractions in Lawrenceville, GA

Even though pediatric dentist Dr. Jeni Kong uses her board-certified expertise to save and maintain children's teeth, there are instances in which a tooth or teeth might have to be removed. A simple extraction removes a tooth that is visible over the gums. This is typically performed on a tooth that is severely decayed or damaged beyond repair. Whatever the reason for needing a tooth extraction, our caring team at Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry is dedicated to providing your children with compassionate, quality care. Our Lawrenceville, GA practice offers multiple sedation methods, such as nitrous oxide and oral sedation, which can allow your child to stay calm and comfortable throughout their treatment. Get in touch with our friendly staff today for more information on our extraction procedures or to schedule an exam for your child with Dr. Jeni.

If your child requires the extraction of a baby tooth, Dr. Jeni may recommend a space maintainer to preserve the site until the underlying permanent tooth erupts. A space maintainer is a custom-made appliance that is temporarily bonded to your child's upper or lower teeth following an extraction to hold the surrounding teeth in place. When a tooth is lost or extracted, the teeth beside and opposing the open space tend to drift into the area. This may interfere with the eruption of the permanent tooth and cause the need for more extensive care. A space maintainer is made of smooth metal wires and fits over the extraction site to hold the space open until the adult tooth erupts. If your child requires tooth extraction, Dr. Jeni will determine if a space maintainer is needed and review the best way to preserve their oral health with the appliance in place.

While many Lawrenceville, GA children might want to delay or avoid their tooth extractions, getting these procedures performed at Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry immediately after detection could offer the following oral health benefits:

• Averts damage and infection of healthy adjoining teeth
• Performed with a topical anesthetic to numb the tooth and keep your child as comfortable as possible
• Relatively fast treatment that takes place in our office
• May help avoid teeth or gum infection

If your child's tooth is decayed or damaged, Dr. Jeni will make every attempt to fix it using a crown, filling, or other restorative procedure. However, a tooth might be too damaged to salvage and may require removal to save your child's oral health. Your child may also require dental extractions to remove teeth that cannot grow into the mouth properly. In older kids, baby teeth that have not fallen out naturally might require extraction to avoid obstructing permanent teeth. If your child is undergoing orthodontic care, the orthodontist might recommend tooth extractions to make space for the remaining teeth as they move into their proper place.

Dental extractions are performed in our office using local anesthesia, which is placed in the area near the tooth being removed. To be sure your child is completely comfortable and relaxed before beginning treatment or administering local anesthesia, our staff is trained to administer nitrous oxide in low doses so that your child is safe but does not experience pain. Dr. Jeni may also write a prescription for antibiotics if the reason for the tooth extraction included infection in the underlying bone.

Depending on whether sedation was used, your child may feel a little groggy for a few hours following the extraction visit. As the gums heal, your child will need to avoid using straws and spitting. Their recovery will vary, depending on the complexity of the extraction; however, many patients prefer to eat soft, room-temperature food for at least a couple of days following the procedure. Dr. Jeni will speak with you regarding what is normal as your child recovers and offer tips on how to care for their teeth and gums during the healing phase. Your child's gums will probably be inflamed after the procedure; therefore, Dr. Jeni may suggest over-the-counter pain medicine and cold compresses. In addition to a follow-up visit, it is important that your child attend regular appointments at Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry for exams and cleanings so Dr. Jeni can track their oral health following a tooth extraction.

Most dental insurance plans cover medically necessary extractions, such as removing a tooth due to severe decay, infection, or trauma. However, your child's sedation option may not be completely covered. Before the extraction visit, our team will call your insurance company to determine your child's particular coverage amounts and estimate any personal expenses.

What if my child has dental anxiety?
If your child has dental anxiety, there are ways to help them feel more comfortable. One way is to find a dentist who specializes in pediatric dentistry. Dr. Kong has years of experience working with children and will provide the necessary care in a way that is comfortable for them. Nitrous oxide and oral sedation options also exist to help your child feel at ease.

Why choose us for pediatric tooth extractions?
Our dental team in Lawrenceville, CA is dedicated to ensuring each child feels comfortable and safe in our office. We also understand that some procedures, such as tooth extractions, can be daunting for parents and children. That is why we take the time to review each step of the process and answer any questions you may have.

How can I prepare my child for a tooth extraction?
If your child is scheduled for tooth extraction, there are some things parents and guardians can do to prepare. One is to explain what will happen in simple terms they can understand. You can also use a toy or doll when explaining the procedure. These will help them feel better about seeing a dentist when they come in for their appointment.

How much do pediatric dental extractions cost?
The total price of pediatric dental extractions can vary from patient to patient due to various factors. Our talented team will listen to your goals and concerns during your initial consultation to design a treatment plan that is completely catered to your needs. Once this plan has been agreed upon, our team can speak with you about the numerous payment methods we accept and review the option of low-interest patient financing.

Are pediatric dental extractions painful?
No. The vast majority of our pediatric patients do not feel any pain or discomfort while receiving dental extractions. This is due, in large part, to our modern equipment and unparalleled experience.

What can my child eat after a tooth extraction?
Our team suggests eating soft foods, such as applesauce, mashed potatoes, yogurt, eggs, smoothies, and steamed vegetables, while your mouth heals. Before you leave, we’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions to guide your recovery.

Whether your child has a damaged tooth or inadequate space for eruption, a tooth extraction from Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry may help improve their smile and oral health. Make a consultation with Dr. Jeni at our full-service Lawrenceville, GA pediatric dental practice to find out more about pediatric tooth extractions. If your child has dental worries or fears, inquire about sedation options to help them stay relaxed and calm throughout the process.