Pediatric Tooth Extractions

Pediatric Tooth Extractions In Colorado Springs, CO

At Otter Kids Pediatric Dentistry in Colorado Springs, we know that the thought of your child needing a tooth extraction is overwhelming. But rest assured, Dr. Ken Otterstedt and our team are here to make the experience as smooth, safe, and comfortable as possible.

Tooth extractions are never our first choice, but when necessary, you can trust Dr. Ken to approach the procedure with compassion, skill, and a whole lot of heart.

Why Would a Child Need a Tooth Extraction?

There are several reasons Dr. Ken might recommend removing a tooth, including:

Severe tooth decay that can’t be repaired with a filling or crown
Infection or abscess that could spread if left untreated
Stubborn baby teeth that haven’t fallen out and are blocking permanent teeth
Fractured or damaged teeth due to an injury
Extra (supernumerary) teeth that are affecting normal oral development

Dr. Ken only recommends extractions when it’s the best way to protect your child’s long-term dental health and development. If a pediatric tooth extraction is best for your child, you can be sure that our team in Colorado Springs will keep your child comfortable and safe each step of the way.

How Your Pediatric Dentist In Colorado Springs Performs Tooth Extractions

As a board-certified pediatric dentist in Colorado Springs, Dr. Ken is deeply committed to caring for your child’s teeth in an honest, compassionate way. If your child needs an extraction, we’ll answer all your questions, talk through every option, and make sure you feel confident and comfortable during the entire procedure. Here’s what you can expect:

Gentle Numbing: We start by numbing the area with a local anesthetic so your child won’t feel any pain. Dr. Ken uses calming, age-appropriate language to explain each step as he works.
Comfort Measures: We may offer sedation options (like nitrous oxide or oral sedation) for especially nervous patients or more complex extractions.
Quick and Careful Extraction: Using specialized tools, Dr. Ken gently loosens the tooth and removes it. Most extractions are completed in just a few minutes.
Aftercare Instructions: You’ll receive clear guidance on caring for the extraction site, including written instructions, before you leave your appointment.

Will my child be put to sleep for tooth extraction?

Most extractions can be done with local anesthesia alone. In some cases, we may recommend light sedation, but general anesthesia is rare and typically reserved for complex cases.

How painful is a tooth extraction for kids?

Thanks to modern anesthesia and Dr. Ken’s gentle approach, the procedure itself is pain-free. Your child may experience some post-extraction soreness, but it will be mild and temporary.

How to Prepare Your Child for an Extraction

Dr. Ken and our team in Colorado Springs are here to help your child feel calm and safe during their dental procedure. But it’s also a great idea for parents to discuss the procedure with their child before walking into the office.

Here are a few ways to talk about pediatric tooth extractions with your child:

“Dr. Ken is going to help your tooth wiggle out safely.”
“We’re making room for your grown-up teeth!”
“It’s okay to feel nervous, and Dr. Ken will take good care of you.”

Some other tips to prepare your child for pediatric tooth extractions:

Encourage Questions. Allow your child to ask as many questions as they need to. Answer honestly without going into more detail than necessary.
Bring Comfort Items. If your child has a favorite stuffed animal, blanket, or fidget toy, you’re more than welcome to bring it to your appointment.

Stay Calm Yourself. It’s normal for parents to feel nervous, too! However, your confidence will help reassure your child that there’s nothing to be afraid of.

Pediatric Tooth Extraction Aftercare

After the procedure, it’s normal for your child to feel a little tender or swollen for a day or two. Here’s how you can support a speedy recovery:

Stick to soft foods (like yogurt, applesauce, and mashed potatoes) for the first day
Avoid drinking from straws to prevent dry socket
Keep the area clean with gentle rinsing starting the day after extraction
Use children’s Tylenol or ibuprofen (as directed) for any discomfort

How long does it take a child to recover from an extraction?

Most kids feel back to normal within 24 to 48 hours. Some soreness is normal, but it’s usually manageable with over-the-counter medication and a soft-food diet.

What happens if my child’s extraction site keeps bleeding?

Mild bleeding is normal for a few hours. If it continues, however, have your child bite gently on clean gauze for 15 to 30 seconds at a time. If bleeding persists after several hours, call us.

Pediatric Tooth Extraction FAQs for Parents

Learn more about pediatric tooth extractions and how our dental team in Colorado Springs handles them.

How does your pediatric dentist pull teeth?

Dr. Ken, our pediatric dentist in Colorado Springs, uses gentle, specialized tools to loosen and remove the tooth. The procedure is quick and done under local anesthesia, ensuring your child feels little to no discomfort.

How do they numb kids for tooth extraction?

Dr. Ken uses a small amount of local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. For anxious patients, we may also offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help them relax.

Can a baby tooth be pulled if it’s not ready to fall out?

Yes, sometimes baby teeth need to be removed if they’re interfering with permanent teeth. We may also recommend a pediatric tooth extraction for extensive decay.

Will my child need a space maintainer after an extraction?

Yes, if a baby tooth is removed early, Dr. Ken may recommend a space maintainer to keep room for the permanent tooth. This will depend on your child’s age and the tooth’s location.

Can my child eat after a tooth extraction?

Yes, but stick to soft foods for the first day and avoid anything hot, crunchy, or that requires a straw. We’ll give you a full list of safe options!

How much does a pediatric tooth extraction cost?

Costs vary depending on the complexity of the case and whether sedation is needed. Most insurance plans, including Medicaid and Tricare, cover pediatric tooth extractions.

Schedule Your Pediatric Tooth Extraction Today

If your child is experiencing dental discomfort or has been recommended for an extraction, rest assured that your child is in good hands at Otter Kids Pediatric Dentistry. Our dental clinic in Colorado Springs is known for our compassion and expert care.

Schedule your pediatric tooth extraction appointment with Dr. Ken today and help your child get back to a strong, healthy smile.