Tooth Extractions in Levittown

Treating a Tooth That Cannot Be Saved

When a decayed or damaged tooth is not able to be restored, or severe orthodontic problems are present, tooth extraction may become necessary. At Little Smiles of Levittown, we strive to make tooth extractions in Levittown as comfortable as possible for our young patients.

The Tooth Extraction Process

The process of a tooth extraction can be uncomfortable for kids, and many feel nervous before the procedure. In order to make the child as comfortable as possible, Dr. Lee may recommend the use of a local anesthetic and nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas. The use of these pain relief methods reduces pain levels and helps kids relax during the procedure. A tooth may need to be extracted for a number of reasons.

The procedure for extraction begins with the application of a local anesthetic. Your child may also be given nitrous oxide during the procedure. The tooth must be firmly rocked back and forth to widen the socket for the extraction. When anesthetic is used, children generally feel pressure but not pain from the procedure.

Caring for the Area after Extraction

Immediately after the tooth is extracted, your child will be instructed to bite down on a gauze pad for at least 15 minutes. This is done to help stop the bleeding from the socket and encourage healing to begin. If bleeding persists after 15 minutes, a new gauze pad should be put in place until the bleeding stops completely. We recommend not using straws, brushing the extraction site, or rinsing the mouth for the first 24 hours. Your child may experience mild pain and swelling after the extraction. Pain medications and ice packs can be used to relieve these symptoms.