When a tooth needs to come out, our gentle approach helps your child feel safe and comfortable every step of the way.
Typical procedure time
Numbing & sedation available
Most kids bounce back fast
By dental insurance
Most baby teeth fall out on their own, and permanent teeth are meant to last a lifetime. But sometimes a tooth needs a little help coming out, or it needs to be removed to protect your child’s overall oral health. Our pediatric dentists will always explore every option before recommending an extraction.
Common reasons a child may need a tooth extraction include severe tooth decay that a filling or crown cannot repair, infection or abscess that does not respond to other treatments, crowding from baby teeth that have not fallen out in time, dental trauma from injuries, and orthodontic preparation to create space for braces.
We apply a topical numbing gel first, then use a local anesthetic so your child will not feel any pain. Sedation options are also available for children who need extra help relaxing.
The dentist gently rocks the tooth back and forth to widen the socket. Your child may feel some pressure, but no sharp pain. Once loose, the tooth is carefully lifted out—for most baby teeth, this takes just a few seconds.
We place gauze over the area to help a blood clot form. Before you leave, we walk you through everything you need to know about caring for the extraction site at home so healing goes smoothly.
Many children tell us it was much easier than they expected. Our team uses kid-friendly language, a warm and patient approach, and plenty of encouragement to help your child feel brave and comfortable throughout the entire process.
Everything parents need to know about pediatric tooth extractions.
When a cavity has damaged the tooth beyond what a filling or crown can repair, removal may be the best path forward.
A tooth with a serious infection that does not respond to other treatments may need extraction to prevent spreading.
Baby teeth that have not fallen out in time, or teeth that need removal to create space for braces or orthodontic treatment.
Yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and soup for the first day or two. Avoid straws, chips, nuts, and popcorn until healed.
Over-the-counter children’s pain medication and cold compresses applied 10 minutes on, 10 minutes off to reduce swelling.
If a baby tooth is lost early, a custom-fitted space maintainer may hold the gap open until the permanent tooth is ready to come in.
“My daughter was so nervous about getting a tooth pulled, but the team at Junior Smiles made her feel so safe. They explained everything in kid-friendly words and she was smiling by the time we left. Truly the best pediatric dentist experience.”
Answers from our board-certified pediatric dentists.
Other services that may be recommended alongside or after an extraction.
Hold the gap open after early tooth loss to protect alignment.
Relaxation options for anxious children during procedures.
Restore and protect damaged teeth when extraction is not needed.
Same-day care for dental injuries, trauma, and urgent pain.
Our pediatric dental office is conveniently located for families throughout the region.