Did your child visit their orthodontist only to find out that they need teeth extracted before they’re able to get braces in Irving? During their initial consultation, their orthodontist will examine their mouth and determine what type of treatment they can benefit from straightening out their teeth. It’s not uncommon for teenagers and children to need some teeth extracted to make room in their mouth before their braces are placed, giving their existing teeth more room to achieve better results. Read on to learn why your child’s orthodontist is suggesting having some of their teeth extracted and how it can provide your teen with the best results.
Why is Extraction Necessary for My Teen?
When you take your child to visit their orthodontist for an initial consultation, they’ll take several X-rays of their mouth and conduct a visual examination to determine how severely their teeth are crowded. When they get braces, these teeth will slowly shift into their ideal positions, which are side-by-side; however, they need room to be able to do that.
While most orthodontist try to avoid having teeth extracted in Irving unless it’s absolutely necessary, there are some important reasons why they may suggest one for your child. These include:
- The jaw isn’t large enough to house all of their teeth.
- A tooth is misshapen or disproportionate to other teeth.
- A tooth has decayed or become damage due to a bite problem.
- Straightening teeth without removing some will create long-term issues.
Your orthodontist will conduct a careful analysis that should provide you with answers as to why a tooth extraction is necessary before treatment begins. You can also ask your orthodontist in Irving whether there are any possible alternatives they could suggest.
What Can My Child Expect From a Tooth Extraction Procedure?
Depending on whether your child’s teeth have erupted or not, the process can take place in one of two ways, either by being pulled, or surgically removed. When they’re pulled, their teeth extraction in Irving is less invasive and their tooth will simply be shifted in their mouth until it breaks free. For surgery, their dentist will first make sure they feel absolutely no pain by using a local anesthetic or sedation dentistry. They’ll reveal the tooth hidden beneath the gums by making a small incision and removing it.
How Long Until My Child Can Get Their Braces After Extraction?
After your child’s tooth extraction, their dentist will provide them with aftercare instructions so they make a speedy and comfortable recovery. For a day or two after their procedure, they’ll need to rest and use an ice pack to reduce any swelling, pain, and inflammation. It’s vital that they eat only liquids for the first few days, graduating to soft and solid foods further on in their recovery period. Depending on your child’s situation and what type of removal they had, their orthodontist may recommend getting braces soon after their extraction or waiting until their gums have healed more.
If you’re concerned about your child having a tooth extracted, there’s no need to worry. After a detailed inspection of their mouth conducted by their orthodontist and an explanation of the process, they’ll have nothing to fear. With a tooth extraction before their orthodontic treatment, they’ll be able to achieve beautiful results that will last a lifetime.
