What is a Tooth Extraction?
A tooth extraction is the careful removal of a tooth from its socket in the jaw.
At Forest Hill Children's Dentistry, our dentists may recommend an extraction when other treatments aren’t effective or when keeping the tooth could affect your child’s oral health.
There are several reasons a child or teen might need a tooth removed. This can include a tooth that is severely decayed, damaged, or infected, as well as wisdom teeth that are coming in at an awkward angle or causing discomfort.
Extractions are also sometimes needed to make room for proper alignment or to prepare for other dental procedures.
If your child needs a tooth removed, our team will take a gentle approach, explaining each step in a way children can understand, and provide guidance for care afterward to support healing and comfort.
Wisdom Tooth Removal
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to come in, usually appearing in the back corners of the mouth between the ages of 17 and 25. Not everyone develops wisdom teeth, and even when they do, these third molars don’t always have enough room to grow properly.
Because of their position, wisdom teeth can sometimes crowd neighbouring teeth, shift alignment, or become partially erupted, which can make it harder to keep the area clean.
This can increase the risk of discomfort, infection, or other dental issues. When these problems arise, or when wisdom teeth are unlikely to fully develop without causing trouble, your dentist may recommend having them removed to protect your oral health and maintain a comfortable, properly aligned smile.
The Tooth Removal Process
If your child needs a tooth removed, our team at Forest Hill Children's Dentistry will guide you through every step.
First, the dentist will examine your child’s teeth and take X-rays if needed to determine the best approach.
During the extraction, the dentist carefully loosens the tooth from its socket and removes it, working gently and efficiently while your child is numbed with local anesthesia.
After the extraction, we provide clear instructions for at-home care, including tips for managing soreness, keeping the area clean, and safe foods while healing. Our goal is to make the experience as calm as possible while helping protect your child’s oral health.