2. Describe the Procedure
Children can be even more afraid of the unknown, so walking them through the process could help them feel more at ease.
Here are some points to cover:
- The dentist will ask them to open their mouth and numb the tooth.
- They may need to wear a mask (for laughing gas) or take a pill (oral conscious sedation), which will help them feel relaxed.
- The dentist will wiggle their teeth back and forth. It can feel weird, but it won’t hurt.
- After the tooth is pulled out, they will need to bite down on gauze and keep the mouth closed.
- There will be some bleeding, but not too much.
3. Answer All Their Questions
Let your child address their concerns directly. They may wonder about the level of pain or what their smile will look like after the extraction.
It’s best to answer their questions honestly so they know what to expect fully.
4. Stress That It’s Not a Form of Punishment
Kids might wonder why they need an extraction, and telling them "because you eat too many sweets" or similar explanations is not a good idea as it can make the child feel worse about the situation.
Instead, tell them it’s necessary for their oral health and that the extraction will help their smile grow happy and healthy.
5. Prepare Something Else They Can Look Forward to
Don’t make the entire day about the tooth extraction. Even if the child feels a bit woozy after sedation, you can still help them look forward to something afterward, like a treat later that night or watching their favorite cartoon.
Does Your Child Need a Tooth Extraction?
Are you concerned about your child's dental health? Bring your child to Dr. Ying An at Sunflower Pediatric Dentistry for a comprehensive consultation to determine if a tooth extraction is necessary. Our gentle and experienced team specializes in pediatric dental care and will provide a thorough evaluation of your child's dental needs.
Schedule Today
Request a visit to Sunflower Pediatric Dentistry online or call us at (440) 273-8104 to learn more about our comprehensive pediatric dental services. We're dedicated to ensuring your child's oral health and comfort, and we'll work closely with you to make the best decisions for your child's smile. Don't hesitate to reach out – we're here to help!
