Pediatric Tooth Extractions in Lehi, UT
A dental extraction, commonly known as having a tooth pulled, is one of the most common procedures performed in a dental office. At Alpine Kids Dentistry, we take a preventive approach but provide safe, gentle extractions when a tooth cannot be saved.
Our board-certified pediatric dentist always makes every effort to treat your child’s tooth and avoid extraction, but it isn’t always possible. When removal is the best option, our Lehi, UT team keeps your child comfortable and informed throughout the process.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Needed?
Tooth removal in children is often performed to relieve a broken tooth, treat significant decay or cavities, or remove teeth that are causing overcrowding in the mouth. In some cases, extraction supports healthy alignment as permanent teeth come in.
What Does the Procedure Involve?
Once our dentist determines an extraction is necessary, we take a digital X-ray to evaluate the tooth. Your child receives local anesthesia to numb the affected tooth and surrounding area. Once fully numb, our pediatric dentist gently rocks the tooth back and forth to ease it out of the socket. Stubborn teeth may need to be removed in sections. For anxious children, sedation options are available.
Aftercare
After an extraction, your child may experience some discomfort, which can be relieved with ice and pain relievers as directed. We’ll advise you to avoid certain foods for a few days, and your child should feel completely better within one to two weeks. Detailed post-operative instructions are available on our Post Operative Care page. The procedure is safe for most children and rarely involves complications. Request an appointment or call 801-377-5437.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
When does a child need a tooth extraction?
Extractions are needed to remove a severely broken or decayed tooth, relieve overcrowding, or address teeth that interfere with healthy alignment as permanent teeth erupt.
Does a tooth extraction hurt?
No. We numb the tooth and surrounding area with local anesthesia, and sedation options are available for anxious children, so your child stays comfortable throughout.
How long is recovery after an extraction?
Most children feel some mild discomfort for a day or two and are fully healed within one to two weeks. We provide detailed aftercare instructions to support healing.
What can my child eat after an extraction?
Stick to soft foods and avoid acidic, spicy, crunchy, or sticky items for a few days. Avoid straws and vigorous rinsing in the first 24 hours to protect the healing site.
Will my child need a space maintainer after an extraction?
If a baby tooth is removed early, a space maintainer may be recommended to hold space for the permanent tooth and prevent shifting. Our dentist will advise you.
Is it safe to remove a baby tooth?
Yes. When a baby tooth cannot be saved, removal is a safe, routine procedure. We carefully evaluate each tooth and plan for healthy alignment afterward.
What should I do if my child has bleeding after an extraction?
Some oozing is normal for the first 24 hours. If active bleeding occurs, have your child gently bite on damp gauze for about 20 minutes. Contact us if bleeding persists.