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We're here to save teeth!

But sometimes you have to lose a tooth to save a smile.

Baby teeth are the placeholders for the permanent teeth that come in after the baby teeth are gone. Keeping baby teeth healthy and in place for as long as possible is critical to a healthy smile later in life.  Our pediatric dentists do everything they can to save each and every one of them.

Even so, there are times when pulling a tooth is necessary because of trauma, infection, or crowding (not enough space in the mouth). Wisdom teeth are also a major reason for extractions, particularly for teens and young adults.

If you need an extraction...

Here’s what to expect:

X-Rays

Clear X-rays of the tooth in question are the first step. Your child’s dentist will determine the condition of the surrounding area to make sure the extraction will go smoothly. 

Review by the team

Your child’s dentist and dental team will review the X-rays to develop the best course of action for tooth removal.

Removal of the tooth

We always strive to make our patients comfortable before we begin. The pediatric dentist will apply a local anesthetic (for wisdom teeth removal, oftentimes a general anesthetic will be administered) to ensure that the procedure is as comfortable and pain-free as possible.

After the tooth has been carefully and gently removed, gauze is applied to minimize any bleeding. Your child’s dentist may need to make a few small stiches to speed up the healing process.

When you Get Home

It’s best to take it easy after tooth extraction – no climbing trees or other strenuous activity! Cold compresses work for pain or swelling. If your child experiences more serious complications, our help line is open 24 hours a day, and calls are free. In case of emergency, please call 911.

Western Dental Kids

Lets fill in that gap!

Don’t let a pulled tooth put a hole in your smile. Bridges can keep your smile looking good and your jaw healthy and strong after an extraction.

Bridge that gap

Western Dental Kids

Lose a tooth, save your jaw

Losing a tooth can cause the underlying bone to dissolve away, which puts other teeth at risk. Your dentist may recommend bone restoration and a dental implant to keep your jaw and gums healthy and make your smile as good as new.

How Implants Work

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