One of the most common dental procedures children may undergo is dental extraction. A dental extraction is the removal of a tooth from the mouth. It can be a simple or a complex procedure, depending on the condition of the tooth and the child’s age.
In this article, we will discuss five signs your child may need a dental extraction and what you can do as a parent to help your child through the process.
1. Severe Tooth Decay
Severe tooth decay is one of the most common reasons for dental extractions in children. If your child has a cavity that has gone untreated for a long time, it can lead to the decay of the tooth’s pulp, which can cause infection and pain. In some cases, a filling may not be enough to save the tooth, and extraction may be necessary.
Below are signs of severe tooth decay that may warrant an appointment with your child’s dentist:
- Pain or sensitivity when eating or drinking
- Visible holes or pits in the teeth
- Discoloration of the teeth
- Bad breath
2. Crowding of Teeth
Overcrowding occurs when there is not enough space in the mouth for all teeth to grow properly. This can cause the teeth to become misaligned, leading to problems with chewing and speaking. If your child’s teeth are overcrowded, their dentist may recommend a dental extraction to create space in the mouth for the remaining teeth to grow properly.
Signs of overcrowding include:
- Crooked or overlapping teeth
- Crowding of the front teeth
- Difficulty biting or chewing
- Speech difficulties
3. Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically begin to emerge in the late teenage years or early twenties. While some people can keep their wisdom teeth, others may need to have them extracted. Your child may need their wisdom teeth extracted if they experience the following:
- Pain or discomfort in the back of the mouth
- Swelling or redness in the gums
- Difficulty opening the mouth
- Headaches or earaches
4. Trauma to the Tooth
If your child has experienced trauma to the tooth, such as a fall or a sports injury, it may need to be extracted. Trauma can cause the tooth to become loose, cracked, or broken, which can lead to infection and pain. It is crucial to set an appointment with a dentist to check your child’s teeth. Here are some signs of trauma to the tooth:
- Pain or sensitivity when biting or chewing
- Loose or wobbly teeth
- Swelling or redness in the gums
- Bleeding from the gums
5. Baby Teeth That Haven’t Fallen Out
Most children begin to lose their baby teeth around 6 or 7 years old, but in some cases, baby teeth may not fall out on their own. If a baby tooth does not fall out, it can prevent the permanent tooth from growing properly. Below are signs your child may need a dental extraction:
- A permanent tooth growing in behind the baby tooth
- Crowding or misalignment of the permanent teeth
- Pain or discomfort in the gums or teeth
Conclusion
As a parent, it is important to know the signs that your child may need a dental extraction. If you notice any of the signs listed above, it is important to schedule an appointment with your child’s dentist as soon as possible. While dental extractions can be a scary and uncomfortable experience for children, they are often necessary to maintain dental health and prevent further complications.
Pickering Dental Services offers safe dental extraction in Pickering. If you think your child needs an extraction, schedule an appointment with us today.
