Tooth Extractions – Bastrop, TX
Removing Problem Teeth to Protect Future Smiles
Why Choose Smiles University Pediatric Dentistry for Tooth Extractions?
- Sedation dentistry available
- Trained and skilled pediatric dentists with decades of experience
- Calm and caring dental team
Reasons for Kids’ Tooth Extractions
You can trust that we will always discuss options outside for tooth extractions in Bastrop, TX, if available, but some of the possible reasons the removal of a tooth may be necessary include:
- Extensive facial trauma
- Severe dental decay that may put other nearby healthy teeth at risk
- A baby tooth that will not fall out naturally, causing problems with permanent tooth eruption
- Overcrowded teeth that require additional space for effective orthodontic care
The Tooth Extraction Process
Once a treatment plan has been decided we will place a very strong topical anesthetic before administering local anesthesia. We will then use specialized dental instruments to move the tooth back and forth. Once the tooth dislodges from the ligaments holding it into place, our team will gently remove it from the socket and pack the area with clean gauze.
We’ll provide you with the necessary post-operative instructions to help your child’s mouth heal as quickly as possible.
Caring for Your Child’s Smile After Tooth Extraction
Once the tooth is removed, you’ll need to take your child home and replace the gauze as necessary until the bleeding stops. After an extraction the area may continue to ooze for 24 hours. We will provide post-op instructions after the appointment so please try to follow these as closely as possible.
Allowing your child to get plenty of rest is also essential. Limiting their physical activity and having them eat soft foods the first several days will help ensure they heal properly.
When Might Your Child Need a Baby Tooth Extracted?
While baby teeth naturally fall out on their own, sometimes, a primary tooth extraction becomes necessary. As a pediatric dental practice, we want to help you understand when and why this procedure might be recommended for your child.
Most commonly, we consider extracting a primary tooth when:
- It's severely damaged by decay and can't be saved through other treatments
- It's preventing the proper eruption of permanent teeth
- There's a significant infection or abscess that could affect surrounding teeth
- The tooth is loose but stubbornly hanging on, causing discomfort or eating difficulties
Your Child's Comfort Is Our Priority
For children who feel nervous about dental procedures, we offer several gentle sedation options. Nitrous oxide (often called "laughing gas") is a safe, mild sedative that helps children feel relaxed and more comfortable throughout the procedure. The effects wear off quickly afterward. For more anxious patients, we can discuss other appropriate sedation methods to ensure a stress-free experience.
The procedure itself is quick. Most children return to their normal activities the same day, though we recommend soft foods for the first 24 hours.
Many parents worry about extracting a baby tooth too early, but rest assured – we carefully evaluate each case. When necessary, we can place a space maintainer to prevent neighboring teeth from shifting until the permanent tooth emerges.
Remember, early intervention often prevents more complicated dental issues down the road. If you have concerns about your child's teeth, we're here to answer your questions and provide the best care possible.
Understanding the Cost of Tooth Extractions
If it is decided that your child needs to undergo tooth extraction, you can count on our Smiles University Pediatric Dentistry team to review the details pertaining to any out-of-pocket expenses you might incur. Considered a complex procedure for your child, we recognize the cost can add up, and it is why we will do our best to maximize your available dental insurance benefits as well as go over additional financing options so that you save the most money on your child’s upcoming treatment.
Factors That Can Affect Tooth Extraction Cost
The price of your child’s tooth extraction is unlikely to be the same as someone else’s, so determining the cost can only happen once our team has the chance to evaluate your little one’s case. Some of the most common factors we will consider when creating your cost estimate include:
- How many teeth your child will need to have removed
- The type of tooth or teeth that need to be extracted as well as where they’re located inside the mouth
- Whether they will require a simple extraction (the tooth is visible above the gumline) or a surgical procedure (the tooth is impacted and beneath the gumline)
- Whether your child will need a space maintainer to prevent potential drifting and orthodontic treatment in the future
Does Dental Insurance Cover Tooth Extractions?
Most major dental insurance plans provide coverage for tooth extractions. As a major dental procedure, it’s possible that they’ll pay up to 50% of the total cost once you meet your deductible. Of course, they will also consider how much of the annual maximum remains before determining the exact amount they will cover. Speaking to an insurance representative or asking a member of our team to work on your behalf is important to better understand the details of your plan and how you can maximize your savings.
Other Options for Making Tooth Extractions Affordable
At Smiles University Pediatric Dentistry, we understand that not all patients and families have dental insurance, which is why we offer alternative payment options, like CareCredit. This third-party company makes it easy to choose a plan with little-to-no interest so that you can break up the cost of your child’s procedure into manageable monthly installments. With no surprise fees, you’ll be able to stress less when it comes to paying for treatment.