Tooth extraction might sound intimidating, especially for children. However, there are situations where removing a tooth is the best option for your child’s dental health. But how can that be? Isn’t losing a tooth always bad? Not necessarily! Understanding the benefits of extraction can help ease any concerns you may have. Continue reading to learn how tooth extraction can be beneficial for your child!
1. Prevents Overcrowding
Children’s mouths are smaller, and sometimes there isn’t enough room for all their teeth to come in properly. Overcrowding can lead to misaligned teeth and bite issues. Extracting one or more teeth can provide the space needed for the remaining ones to grow in correctly. This often reduces the need for braces or other orthodontic treatments later on!
2. Sets Up Orthodontic Treatment
Sometimes, your child’s dentist may recommend tooth extraction to help the success of braces or other orthodontic treatments. Removing specific teeth can better align their bite and ensure that other teeth move into their desired positions. This can lead to a more effective and faster orthodontic treatment process.
3. Removes Painful or Damaged Teeth
Sometimes, a tooth is too damaged or decayed to be saved by fillings or crowns. Leaving a severely damaged tooth in place can lead to pain, infection, and other complications. Extracting the tooth prevents these issues and can alleviate your child’s discomfort. It also prevents the spread of infection to other teeth and gums, preventing further damage down the road.
4. Alleviating Impacted Teeth
An impacted tooth can’t fully erupt through the gums. This is common with wisdom teeth but can happen with others as well. Pearly whites that become impacted can cause pain, swelling, and even damage to surrounding tooth and gum structures. Extracting impacted teeth can prevent these problems and keep your child’s mouth healthy.
5. Improves Oral Hygiene
Crowded or misaligned teeth can be challenging to clean properly, especially for kids. This can lead to plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. Extracting problematic teeth can make it easier for your child to brush and floss effectively. This promotes better oral hygiene and reduces the risk of future dental problems.
So, while the idea of tooth extraction might be unsettling, it can often be the best choice for your child. If you have concerns about your child’s dental health, don’t hesitate to reach out to their dentist. Together, you can work out a treatment plan that will help your child keep a healthy, beautiful smile for years and years!
About the Practice
If your child is dealing with uncomfortable dental issues in Chesterfield, Dr. Homer Sedighi and Dr. Jessica Martin want to help! They enjoy educating and treating their young patients to help them lead happier, healthier lives with bright smiles. Call (636) 777-7777 to schedule a consultation for your child at Homer Sedighi, D.M.D., Jessica Martin, D.M.D., Pediatric Dentistry or visit the website to see a full menu of their services.