Tooth Extractions – Denver, CO
Expert Tooth Removal in a Calm Environment
Tooth extractions are always seen as a last resort in dentistry, and that’s no different when you visit Dr. Patrick at Wash Park Pediatric Dentistry. We have multiple options for helping you save your child’s damaged teeth. However, if an extraction does become necessary, whether it’s for a baby tooth or a permanent tooth, we’ll make sure that you know every step of the procedure beforehand and that your child is fully prepared and comfortable for their tooth extractions in Denver, CO. Feel free to give our dental office a call to schedule your child’s next appointment!
Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary
One of the most common reasons why a child may need to have teeth extracted is because of long-standing decay. Once that decay reaches the inner area of the tooth where the pulp lies, it can easily trigger an infection. Additionally, teeth that are severely cracked as a result of an injury, especially when the crack extends below the gum line, will need to be extracted. There are some instances where teeth also need to be removed due to tooth crowding, which would be done in conjunction with treatment from an orthodontist. No matter what the cause, Dr. Patrick will explain your treatment plan in great detail so you understand clearly why we recommend the procedure.
Process of Removing a Tooth
The method Dr. Patrick uses to take out a damaged tooth depends on what type of tooth it is and where it is located within the mouth. With a very short root, a baby tooth often simply needs to be gently rocked back and forth. A permanent tooth that has erupted may also require the same approach. For removing teeth below the gums surface, we need to make a surgical incision. Before we schedule your child’s tooth extraction, we will tell you how we will do it and the measures we’ll take to keep your child comfortable throughout the procedure.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
For a short while following tooth removal, it is critical to do as Dr. Patrick instructs. In most cases, a child’s mouth will be sore for a few days, but any discomfort can be managed through pain medication found at a drugstore and plenty of rest. Regardless of the type of extraction, you must let a blood clot form over the site. This clot shields the nerves and vulnerable tissue underneath, allowing it to heal properly. A good way to ensure that the blood clot stays in place is to not allow your child to use a straw for at least 48 hours after the procedure. Before you leave our office, we’ll give you a full set of instructions to help make the recovery process as smooth as possible.
Understanding the Cost of Tooth Extractions for Kids
Prior to your child going through a tooth extraction, you probably want to know about how much it will cost. Each situation is different, making a general estimate for the procedure difficult to calculate and share. If we recommend extracting one or more of your child’s teeth, we will then gladly go over the financial details with you, explaining the cost and your payment options in depth with you. Do you have questions about cost? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us!
Factors That Can Affect Tooth Extraction Cost
Here are just some of the elements we consider that can impact the amount you would owe for a tooth extraction:
- The type of tooth: Baby teeth are much easier to remove than permanent, adult teeth. Molars, located in the back of the mouth, also tend to be more challenging to extract.
- The number of teeth being extracted: Clearly, the more teeth needing to be removed, the higher the cost will be.
- Any additional treatment: If your child requires other treatment like a space maintainer, the overall cost will go up.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Tooth Extractions?
The short answer to this question is yes, dental insurance includes coverage for necessary tooth extractions for kids. More precisely, however, most insurance policies will likely pay for about 50 percent of the total cost, which leaves you the other half to pay out-of-pocket. Your plan may vary from this general trend, so we will take a closer look at your child’s available coverage to clarify what you’ll still owe after insurance pays its part of the cost.
How to Make Tooth Extractions Affordable
After using your insurance benefits, you may have concerns about the remaining amount. Talk to our team about your situation, and we can work out a payment solution.
Tooth Extractions FAQs
It is natural for a parent to have questions about their child’s oral health. If you learn that your child needs to have a tooth removed for whatever reason, you can count on Dr. Patrick and the compassionate team at Wash Park Pediatric Dentistry to provide the answers you need to make the right decision for your child’s smile. As a pediatric emergency dentist in Denver, Dr. Patrick will go over the procedure with you as well as any post-op instructions to ensure a swift recovery at home. Below is a list of frequently asked questions you are welcome to review. Should you prefer to speak with Dr. Patrick about additional details surrounding your child’s tooth extraction, contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
Will My Child’s Tooth Need to Be Replaced After It Is Extracted?
It depends. There are several factors that we consider when it comes to possible replacement. For instance, the type and location of the tooth as well as your child’s age and stage of oral development play a large role in determining whether a tooth needs to be replaced. Regardless of the circumstances, our caring team will discuss all the options available to you and help you determine the one that would be most suitable for your child.
Will My Child Need to Be Put to Sleep for a Tooth Extraction?
Not likely. At Wash Park Pediatric Dentistry, we find that the strong majority of patients do not require general anesthesia or more intensive forms of sedation to stay calm and comfortable during tooth extractions. Dr. Patrick and our experienced team excel at building trust with each child, reducing anxiety or stress, even for children with special needs. At most, patients may benefit from nitrous oxide, which is inhaled through the nose and gently provides a warm, content feeling.
What Will Recovery Be Like?
After Dr. Patrick is finished with their tooth extraction, you and your child will return home where they will be expected to get plenty of rest. Do not be alarmed if minor bleeding occurs, as this is completely normal. Have them bite down on clean gauze to minimize additional bleeding. Dr. Patrick will also advise that your child eat only soft foods for the first few days as well as drink plenty of clear liquids. Over time, their gums will begin to heal. Should they experience any discomfort, do not be afraid to provide an over-the-counter pain reliever as instructed. A cold compress can also help minimize pain and swelling.
Will Dental Insurance Cover the Cost of My Child’s Tooth Extraction?
Depending on your dental insurance plan, they pay a portion of the total cost. How much they will cover is largely based on if you’ve met your deductible and how much of the annual maximum has been used. At Wash Park Pediatric Dentistry, our team will help you navigate the financial side of dentistry by identifying ways to maximize your benefits and lower your out-of-pocket expenses. As a pediatric dentist in Denver, Dr. Patrick happily welcomes almost all PPO plans.