While preserving teeth is always the goal, sometimes a tooth must be extracted to protect your child’s overall oral health. Pediatric dental extractions are a safe and routine procedure performed when a tooth is too damaged or poses a risk to surrounding teeth.
An extraction is needed when:
- Severe decay that cannot be repaired with a filling or crown
- Infection or abscess that could spread if left untreated
- Baby teeth that won’t fall out naturally, delaying permanent teeth
- Crowding issues that require space for orthodontic treatment
- A fractured tooth that cannot be restored
As your child gets older, their wisdom teeth will be evaluated for possible extraction. Wisdom teeth are typically extracted when they cause problems or are likely to cause issues in the future. Common reasons for extraction include:
Impacted Wisdom Teeth: When the teeth do not have enough space to emerge properly, leading to pain or infection.
Crowding:If the wisdom teeth are pushing against other teeth, they can cause misalignment or damage to existing teeth.
Infection or Decay: If the wisdom teeth are partially erupted and difficult to clean, they may develop infections or cavities.
Gum Disease: In some cases, wisdom teeth may lead to gum infections or swelling.
Prevention: Some people may have their wisdom teeth extracted as a preventive measure before they cause problems, often in their late teens or early 20s.
The decision to extract wisdom teeth depends on the specific situation, and a dentist or oral surgeon can assess and recommend the best course of action.
