At the office of Lighthouse Kids Dental, our patients' care and well-being are our top priorities. Every member of our skilled and experienced team strives to ensure patient comfort and a stress-free dental experience. Our dedication to the consistent provision of compassionate and personalized attention along with gentle, precise care has earned our office the respect and trust of our patients.
While we do everything we can to preserve the integrity of your natural smile, it's sometimes necessary to extract a tooth to protect your oral health and overall well-being.
A "baby" or deciduous tooth that is over retained (reluctant to fall out), severely decayed, or damaged
In most cases, a baby tooth will fall out as scheduled as the underlying permanent one begins to erupt into place. However, occasionally a baby tooth continues to remain firmly attached to the bone. Either the roots of the baby tooth have failed to resorb and shrink as intended, or the baby tooth has become anklylosed and fused to the supporting bone. The problem is that over-retained baby teeth can disrupt the development and alignment of your child's smile. As we monitor your child's smile as they grow, we'll advise you if and when an extraction of a baby tooth is required to facilitate the eruption of its underlying permanent successor.
A permanent tooth that has extensive decay and is deemed non-restorable
Beginning as a simple pinpoint defect on the outermost enamel layer of your tooth, untreated dental decay will continue to compromise healthy tooth structure as it works its way to the inner layers of the tooth. Without proper care, a cavity can lead to significant damage to tooth structure, irreversible damage to the nerve of the tooth, a dental infection, and serious consequences to your oral health and overall well-being. When the tooth has sustained far too much structural damage and cannot be restored, a dental extraction may be required.
A permanent tooth that has been severely fractured or cracked and can not be restored
There are many different types of chips, cracks, and fractures that can affect your teeth. The extent of the damage that it causes will determine if there is enough intact tooth structure to save the tooth and the type of treatment required. In cases where too much tooth structure or the root of a tooth has also been compromised, an extraction may be necessary.
Advanced gum disease that has significantly compromised the tooth's supporting tissues
The most common cause of tooth loss in adults is gum disease. When left untreated, periodontal disease, which affects the hard and soft tissues supporting your teeth, can lead to gingival pocket formation, gum recession, and diminishing alveolar bone. As advanced and untreated gum disease progresses, the teeth ultimately loosen, fall out, or require extractions.
Poorly positioned, impacted, or decayed wisdom teeth
Wisdom teeth, which are also known as the third molars, are the last permanent teeth to develop in the oral cavity and the final ones to come into place. However, as is often the case, many wisdom teeth do not have sufficient room to erupt, are not developing correctly, develop extensive decay, or cause issues for the adjacent teeth and the surrounding tissues. Although the extraction of wisdom teeth sometimes gets recommended for an older patient, the early removal of troublesome or potentially problematic third molars in young adults is more often the case.
Overcrowded Teeth
A tooth size to jaw size discrepancy often results in a crowded and misaligned smile. More simply put, the upper and lower jaws are not large enough to accommodate all the permanent teeth. As part of an orthodontic treatment plan to optimally align teeth and establish an attractive, healthy, and functional bite, the extraction of select permanent teeth may be required.
Whatever the reasons for a dental extraction may be, you can rest assured that your care is in the best of hands at our office. As the first step in care, our dentist will review your medical and dental histories and discuss any special considerations in care.
It's essential to inform our office of any existing medical conditions or medications you are currently taking. In some situations, extra precautions, including premedication with antibiotics, a change in medication, and a medical clearance may be required. Follow all our pre-surgical directives and let us know if you are sick or have developed other symptoms on the day of surgery.
Our goal is to reduce any anxiety and help ensure patient comfort whenever a tooth extraction is necessary. In advance of the procedure, we'll discuss any medical considerations or precautions and go over our pre-surgical instructions. We'll also discuss post-surgical recommendations, including whether replacing the extracted tooth or teeth is needed and the best options in care.
To thoroughly assess the tooth and the type of extraction required, we perform a comprehensive examination and take digital radiographs as indicated. Extractions are typically categorized as either "simple" or "surgical extractions."
When the tooth is clearly visible in the mouth and the root anatomy is not extensively hooked, fused to the surrounding bone, or otherwise unusual, it usually falls into the category of a simple extraction. Once the tooth and the surrounding tissues get sufficiently numbed with a local anesthetic, our dentist will loosen any attached periodontal tissues and apply forceps to remove the tooth. As with all dental procedures, we do all we can to help ensure your comfort and relaxation throughout every step in care. For patients who are anxious about dental work or certain procedures, we can discuss additional options in dental sedation.
For teeth that are severely broken down, anklylosed, or impacted, a surgical extraction is often indicated. We may refer you to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to perform this procedure. During a surgical extraction, a small incision in the soft tissues and localized, precise removal of overlying bone provides greater access to remove the tooth. As with all tooth extractions, patients are given a local anesthetic to completely numb the involved tooth and the surrounding tissues. Once again, additional options in dental sedation, pre-surgical considerations, and directives are thoroughly discussed and explained.
As skilled and experienced providers of care, we recognize that every case is different and provide treatment that addresses the unique requirements of each patient. Depending on a patient's specific needs, we provide post-operative instructions, including special instructions, limitations on activities, medications, and follow-up care that support optimal recovery and healing. In some cases, post-op care may also include the involvement of a patient's physician. In general, and unless modified otherwise by our office, the following post-operative guidelines apply to simple extractions.
Maintaining gauze pressure
Following your extraction, some gauze to bite down on will be placed over the extraction site. By biting down and maintaining pressure on the gauze as instructed, any active bleeding should stop. You may change the gauze pad after the first hour. Continue to bite down for another 45 minutes if heavy oozing continues. While it's normal for a little oozing to continue for 24 hours, contact our office if you are still experiencing profuse oozing or bleeding.
Until the local anesthesia wears off
Until the local anesthetic has completely worn off, it's essential to protect yourself from unintentionally biting or injuring your lips, cheeks, gums, or tongue.
Take medications as prescribed
Antibiotics:
If you have been given a prescription for antibiotics, be sure to take the correct dosage and full course of medication as prescribed.
Pain management:
It's helpful to take a pain reliever before the local anesthetic completely wears off. Over-the-counter (non-aspirin) pain medication may be taken to relieve discomfort. Any prescription pain medication should only be taken as directed.
To facilitate healing
Do not rinse your mouth, spit, drink through a straw, or suck on candies. It's essential to allow the extraction site to clot and not dislodge the new clot once it has formed.
Applying ice
An ice-pack held in place in the facial area overlying the extraction site helps to control swelling. Apply the ice for 10-minute intervals during the first day following your procedure.
Avoid smoking
Smoking not only prevents clot formation, but it also interferes with healing. Avoid smoking and tobacco products for the first week.
Watch what you eat and drink
Stay away from hot or spicy foods and drinks for the first day or two. Also, refrain from drinking any carbonated or alcoholic beverages. Stick with a diet of soft foods and liquids for the first couple of days following surgery. Drink plenty of fluids.
Oral hygiene
Brush gently; it's essential to take great care not to disturb or irritate the extraction site for a few days. A very mild lukewarm saltwater solution can be used to freshen your mouth. Remember not to rinse or spit that first day or two. Simply let any liquids gently fall from your mouth into the sink.
An appointment for a follow-up visit
If sutures (stitches) were placed, or if a complex extraction, an infection, or other issues requires a visit to monitor your healing and progress, you will be given an appointment for follow-up care. It's essential that you keep this appointment as provided.
If you experience continued bleeding, ongoing pain, more swelling, have a bad taste in your mouth, or other unusual symptoms, contact our office.
You deserve quality care that's personalized to meet your individual needs, and at the office of Lighthouse Kids Dental, you can rest assured your smile is in the best of hands. We deliver precise and gentle care, keeping you informed and relaxed throughout your procedure. If your tooth needs to be replaced, we'll discuss your best options, including dentures, fixed bridges, and dental implants. As the most advanced method of tooth replacement available, dental implants come the closest to replicating the look, feel, and function of a natural smile.
The most common reasons for tooth loss include advanced periodontal disease, extensive tooth decay, and facial trauma. According to statistics, gum disease is responsible for close to 70% of tooth loss in adults. Although less frequent than the preceding three reasons, it should also be noted that specific diseases, drugs, smoking, and poor nutrition contribute to the risk of tooth loss.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that in the United States, an average of 12 teeth (including the wisdom teeth) are lost by the age of 50. Also, 26% of adults between 65 and 74 years of age have lost all their teeth.
Every patient and every situation is different. However, when a tooth and the surrounding tissues are numbed with a local anesthetic, you should only expect to feel a bit of pressure, but no pain as the tooth is being loosened from the surrounding tissues and extracted. For patients who are apprehensive and for some surgical extractions, our office will discuss our options in dental sedation to provide further relaxation and reduce any sense of discomfort.
While it's normal to feel some tenderness and swelling following an extraction, the degree of these sensations can vary. It mostly depends on the complexity of the extraction and the body's response to the procedure. We'll recommend or prescribe the appropriate pain medication to help ensure your comfort and give you specific instructions for maximum effectiveness and safety.
Typically, the recovery period following a simple extraction is shorter than a surgical extraction. However, a patient's overall health, habits, the size and location of the tooth, and other variables can influence recovery and healing. To speed up the recovery and avoid any complications, patients must follow the given at-home instructions diligently. We'll carefully review what to expect following your procedure and go over your post-op instructions.
Smoking interferes with blood clot formation, which is an essential first step in the healing process. Blood clot formation not only provides a protective layer to cover the underlying exposed bone and nerve endings, but it also supports the growth of new tissue. Cigarette smoke also contains chemical toxins that can disrupt the healing process and lead to problems such as continued inflammation, infection, or dry socket.
In a very small percentage of cases, a condition known as dry socket can develop in the aftermath of a dental extraction. This painful condition can arise when the blood clot in the extraction site doesn't form properly or gets dislodged. With dry socket, you may experience throbbing pain and symptoms such as bad breath and an unpleasant taste in your mouth. As skilled providers of care, our office will provide immediate treatment to alleviate your discomfort and promote healing.
The last teeth in your mouth to develop, wisdom teeth often do not have enough room to fully erupt or may be positioned in the wrong direction. These issues can affect your dental health as well as overall wellbeing. While some individuals never develop all their wisdom teeth, and a few have sufficient space for them, there are many people with partially or fully impacted third molars. Our office will monitor the development, position, and health of your wisdom teeth and will advise you if and when extractions are indicated.
After a tooth is removed, bone-grafting material is sometimes placed in the socket to promote healing and encourage new bone development. This procedure is often performed to support the eventual and successful placement of a dental implant.
At the office of Lighthouse Kids Dental, we strive to make dental care affordable and accessible. Depending on the type or complexity of the extraction and other variables, the cost of the procedure can vary. Based on our diagnostic findings, our office will inform you of the healthiest choices in care, explain the fees, discuss insurance coverage, and explain your payment options.
Many dental plans offer some level of coverage for tooth extractions. We'll advise you if your plan covers the full cost of the procedure and if there is any out-of-pocket expense. Our business office will work with you to maximize your insurance benefits as much as possible while helping you minimize any out-of-pocket expenses.
A tooth extraction may be necessary when keeping the tooth poses greater risk than removing it. Common reasons include a severely decayed or fractured tooth that cannot be restored, an over-retained or ankylosed baby tooth that interferes with eruption, advanced gum disease that has compromised support, impacted wisdom teeth, or extractions required as part of orthodontic planning. Our goal is always to preserve natural teeth when possible and recommend extraction only when it protects a child’s oral health.
Every case begins with a detailed clinical exam and appropriate radiographs to determine the cause and plan treatment. We consider the child’s age, dental development, and overall health when recommending extraction so that long-term function and growth are supported. When an extraction is indicated, we explain the reasons, the steps involved, and the follow-up care parents should expect.
A simple extraction is usually performed when the tooth is fully visible in the mouth and the root anatomy is straightforward, allowing removal with forceps after local anesthesia. Surgical extractions are indicated when a tooth is broken at the gum line, impacted, ankylosed, or when root shapes or position require removal of overlying bone or small incisions to access the tooth. Radiographs and a clinical exam determine which category a tooth falls into and help the dentist plan the safest approach.
Surgical extractions may be performed in the office or referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for complex cases, especially when general anesthesia is recommended. Both types of procedures begin with appropriate anesthesia and end with clear post-operative instructions to support healing. If sedation is considered, the team will review options and any necessary pre-surgical preparations.
Before an extraction, provide a complete medical history including current medications, allergies, and any recent illnesses or hospitalizations, as these details can affect treatment and anesthesia choices. Inform the dental team about bleeding disorders, cardiac conditions, implanted devices, or a history of endocarditis, since some situations require special precautions or antibiotic prophylaxis. Also disclose any over-the-counter supplements or herbal remedies that could influence bleeding or sedation.
If your child has special health care needs or developmental considerations, share those details so the team can tailor communication and behavior-management strategies. Discuss any previous reactions to local anesthetics or sedatives and follow any fasting instructions if sedation or general anesthesia is planned. Clear communication helps reduce risks and promote a smooth procedure and recovery.
Several sedation options are available based on the child’s age, anxiety level, medical history, and the complexity of the extraction. Local anesthesia is used in almost every case to numb the area, and nitrous oxide (laughing gas) can help children relax while remaining awake. For more anxious patients or longer procedures, conscious oral sedation or monitored deep sedation may be offered, and in certain complex or medically indicated situations, general anesthesia with hospital dentistry may be arranged.
Safety is the top priority when using sedation; trained staff monitor vital signs and recovery throughout the visit. The dental team will review pre-sedation instructions, fasting requirements, and any necessary medical clearances to minimize risk. Parents should discuss concerns and preferences with the dentist so the most appropriate, safe option is selected for their child.
Baby tooth (deciduous) extractions often focus on removing an over-retained or severely decayed tooth to allow the permanent tooth to erupt normally and to prevent infection or alignment problems. The techniques used tend to be more conservative, taking into account the developing permanent tooth beneath and the child’s growth. The dentist evaluates whether space maintenance or other orthodontic measures will be needed after a baby tooth is removed.
Permanent tooth extractions are planned with long-term function in mind, since losing a permanent tooth can affect chewing, speech, and alignment. When a permanent tooth is removed, the team discusses tooth-replacement options appropriate to the child’s age, such as space maintainers or coordination with an orthodontist, and considers future solutions like implants only after jaw growth is complete. The treatment plan balances immediate healing with future oral development.
Initial recovery from a routine extraction usually involves forming a stable blood clot at the site, controlling bleeding within the first 24 hours, and managing mild to moderate discomfort and swelling for a few days. Most children return to normal activities within 48 to 72 hours, although some soreness and tenderness can persist for a week. Swelling typically peaks 24 to 48 hours after the procedure and gradually subsides with the use of ice during the first day.
Soft foods and careful oral hygiene are advised during the first several days to protect the healing site, and a follow-up visit may be scheduled if sutures were placed or if healing needs monitoring. Complete bone remodeling and maturation of the extraction site can take several months, but soft tissue healing is usually well established within two weeks. If any atypical symptoms arise during recovery, contact the dental team promptly for evaluation.
After an extraction, have your child bite gently on gauze as directed to help form a clot and limit bleeding; change the gauze per instructions and maintain light pressure as needed during the first hour. Avoid rinsing, spitting forcefully, using a straw, or allowing the child to suck on candies for the first 24 hours, as these actions can dislodge the clot and impair healing. Encourage soft, cool or room-temperature foods for the first day or two and gradually reintroduce more normal textures as comfort allows.
Begin gentle toothbrushing away from the extraction site the day after surgery and consider a mild warm saltwater rinse after 24 hours to keep the area clean once the initial clot is secure. Take prescribed medications exactly as directed and use over-the-counter pain relievers when appropriate, following dosing guidance for your child’s age and weight. Keep all scheduled follow-up appointments and contact the office if any instructions are unclear or if unexpected symptoms occur.
Contact the dental office if your child experiences persistent heavy bleeding beyond the first 24 hours, severe uncontrolled pain not relieved by prescribed medication, increasing swelling after 48 hours, fever, or a bad taste or odor that suggests infection. A dry socket, which presents as intense, radiating pain a few days after an extraction, is a common complication in older patients and should be evaluated promptly if suspected. Numbness or altered sensation that does not improve may indicate nerve involvement and requires assessment.
If your child is unable to eat, drink, or stay adequately hydrated, or shows systemic signs of illness such as high fever or lethargy, seek prompt care and notify the dental team. The office will provide clear guidance on urgent symptoms and arrange an expedited evaluation when necessary. Early recognition and treatment of complications help ensure the best possible outcome.
Whether a tooth needs replacement depends on whether the removed tooth was a baby tooth or a permanent tooth and on the child’s age and dental development. Baby teeth are typically not replaced because their successors will erupt, but in some cases a space maintainer or orthodontic appliance is recommended to preserve alignment until the permanent tooth arrives. When a permanent tooth is lost, temporary or long-term options such as space maintainers, orthodontic solutions, removable partials, fixed bridges, or dental implants may be considered depending on growth and development.
Timing is important: dental implants are generally delayed until jaw growth is complete, so interim solutions are often chosen for growing patients. The dental team will discuss appropriate short- and long-term plans and coordinate care with orthodontists or specialists as needed. Treatment is individualized to protect function, appearance, and future oral health.
Lighthouse Kids Dental offers pediatric-focused care delivered by an experienced team that emphasizes gentle, minimally invasive treatment and clear communication with families. The practice combines child-friendly techniques, behavior guidance, and a range of sedation options to keep procedures as comfortable and stress-free as possible for young patients. We use diagnostic tools such as digital radiography to plan extractions precisely and to minimize risk.
The office in Havre de Grace, Maryland prioritizes individualized treatment plans and coordination with specialists when complex surgical care is required. Families receive detailed pre- and post-operative instructions and close follow-up to monitor healing and growth. Choosing a pediatric practice that understands childhood development helps ensure safe care and the best long-term outcome for your child’s smile.
