Extractions
A dental extraction is the removal of a tooth—usually a baby tooth—that is badly decayed, infected, or causing crowding.
How It’s Done
- Assessment: The dentist evaluates the tooth with a visual exam, and sometimes X-rays. Local anaesthesia is applied to numb the area.
- Tooth removal: The dentist gently loosens and removes the tooth using specialized tools.
Aftercare:
Gauze is used to stop bleeding. Parents are given post-op instructions (rest, soft foods, oral hygiene).
Why It’s Done
- To remove severely decayed or infected teeth.
- To relieve pain or prevent the spread of infection.
- To manage overcrowding in preparation for orthodontic care.
- To remove traumatized teeth that cannot be saved.
Space Maintainers
A space maintainer is a small dental device (usually metal) placed in a child’s mouth after a premature tooth loss to hold the space open until the permanent tooth erupts.
These procedures are common in paediatric dentistry and are often combined to prevent future orthodontic problems.
How It’s Done
- Impression or mold: Taken after extraction or when a tooth is lost early.
- Fabrication: A custom-fit device is created.
- Placement: Cemented onto an adjacent tooth or placed as a removable device.
- Monitoring: Checked at regular dental visits to ensure it stays in place and functions properly.
Why It’s Done
- To prevent shifting of other teeth into the gap left by an early lost baby tooth.
- To ensure proper eruption of adult teeth.
- To avoid orthodontic complications, like crowding or misalignment.
- To preserve facial structure and bite development.
Why It’s Used
- After early loss of baby teeth (before the natural time of exfoliation).
- Following extractions due to decay, injury, or infection.
- During interceptive orthodontics, where managing space is critical.
- In children as young as 4–5 years old, depending on the timing of tooth loss and development stage.
