Extractions

You and Dr. Leach may determine that your child needs a tooth extraction for any number of reasons. Some teeth are extracted because they are severely decayed; others may have advanced periodontal disease or have broken in a way that cannot be repaired. Other teeth may need removal because they are poorly positioned in the mouth (such as impacted teeth), or in preparation for orthodontic treatment. During your child’s bi-annual dental health check-up, Dr. Leach will discuss any treatment recommendations with you.

The Extraction Process

At Michael J. Leach D.D.S. Pediatric Dentistry, we simplify the extraction process and ensure that our patients and their parents are 100% comfortable before we begin. Our patients get to choose what flavor “nose” they want wear during the procedure; the ‘nose’ is how we administer the laughing gas. There are 8 different flavors that they can choose from including but not limited to: Bubble Gum, Grape, Strawberry, Orange, and Scent Free. If the extraction appointment is scheduled in advance, we will send home a ‘practice nose’ for them to get comfortable breathing through so they are ready to go on treatment day.

If a patient is anxious, Honey, our therapy dog, will lay with them throughout their procedure and provide them comfort. Dr. Leach and his assistant, Amanda, will perform the extraction which we describe to the patient as us ‘wiggling’ their tooth. The procedure is quick, with time varying depending on the number of teeth needing extraction and the behavior of the child.

Following the tooth/teeth being extracted, Dr. Leach will meet with the parents and provide a synopsis of the procedure, best care practices, and ensure that the patient is still comfortable. At this time, any additional questions that a parent has will be answered.

Post Tooth Extraction Instructions

  • Bite tight on the cotton roll(s) for 10 minutes making sure to swallow your spit. Do not change the cotton roll(s) unless you have to as this will disturb the clot and result in more bleeding. If you do change the cotton, you will need to start over biting and swallowing for 10 more minutes
  • Remember your child is numb and will be numb for approximately 1 hour. Please do not allow them to bite or chew their lip or cheek.
  • For discomfort you may use whatever pain reliever you prefer.
  • Don’t drink through a straw as this can disturb the clot and cause bleeding. Drink normally from a cup, carton or bottle
  • Stay away from the spicy, hot and hard foods for the 1st 24 hours: No pizza, nachos or chips, for example.
  • Don’t rinse and spit for the 1st 24 hours
  • Brush gently this evening avoiding the extraction areas. Please remember not to swish water and spit during brushing as this may cause bleeding. Starting the following day, brush and rinse normally twice daily.
  • Starting the next morning, begin warm salt water rinses (8 ounces of water combined with a teaspoon of salt) 3 times a day for 3 days.
  • If you child experiences any problems, please call our office at 770-521-8855