Pediatric Tooth Extractions in Denver, CO
While we always aim to save and preserve natural teeth whenever possible, there are times when removing a tooth is the safest and best course of action for your child’s overall oral health. At Cherry Creek Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Kojo Danso performs gentle, carefully managed tooth extractions for children — making sure your child is comfortable, calm, and properly cared for before, during, and after the procedure.
Request an AppointmentWhen Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Tooth extractions in children are recommended only when necessary and appropriate. Common reasons a child may need a tooth removed include:
Severe decay: When a tooth is so extensively decayed that it cannot be adequately restored with a filling or crown, extraction may be needed to prevent infection from spreading.
Dental abscess or infection: If an infection at the root of a tooth cannot be treated effectively and safely, removing the tooth may be the best way to protect your child’s health and prevent the infection from spreading.
Overcrowding: In preparation for orthodontic treatment or when there simply isn’t enough space in your child’s mouth for all their teeth to grow in properly, one or more teeth may need to be removed.
Trauma: A tooth that has been severely damaged by injury and cannot be saved may need to be extracted.
Baby teeth that aren’t falling out: If a primary tooth is blocking a permanent tooth from coming in correctly, it may need to be removed to allow proper eruption.
Before recommending an extraction, Dr. Danso performs a thorough examination and reviews digital X-rays to fully understand the situation and explore all available options. We will always walk you through the reasoning and answer your questions before proceeding.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Your child’s comfort is our highest priority during the procedure. We begin by applying a local anesthetic to fully numb the area around the tooth. Once the area is numb, Dr. Danso will gently loosen and remove the tooth. In most cases, the procedure is quick and straightforward. Some children experience mild pressure or movement during the extraction, but not pain.
For children who are highly anxious, have special needs, or need multiple extractions, we also offer sedation and sleep dentistry options to ensure the procedure can be completed safely and comfortably.
After the tooth is removed, a blood clot will naturally form in the socket — this is an essential part of the healing process. We’ll place a small piece of gauze to help control bleeding and give you full written instructions on how to care for your child’s mouth during recovery.
Recovery After a Tooth Extraction
Most children recover from a simple extraction within a few days. During the healing period, follow these general aftercare guidelines:
Avoid drinking through a straw for at least 24 hours, as suction can dislodge the clot and delay healing. Serve soft foods — applesauce, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and similar options — for the first day or two. Avoid hot foods and drinks initially. Keep the extraction site clean but don’t rinse vigorously in the first 24 hours.
Your child’s mouth may be sore and swollen for a few days. Children’s pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort. If you notice increasing swelling, a fever, excessive bleeding, or signs of infection, contact our office right away at (303) 757-8844.
Protecting the Space After Extraction
When a baby tooth is removed earlier than expected, we may recommend a space maintainer — a small dental appliance that holds the gap open and prevents neighboring teeth from drifting until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt. This helps protect your child’s bite and avoid the need for more extensive orthodontic treatment later.
Dr. Danso will advise you on whether a space maintainer is appropriate for your child’s situation.
Contact Cherry Creek Pediatric Dentistry in Denver, CO, at (303) 757-8844 with any questions or to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Extractions
Will my child be in pain during a tooth extraction?
No. We apply a local anesthetic before beginning to numb the area completely. Your child may feel pressure or slight movement but should not feel pain. We also offer SOAN pain-free injections to make the numbing process as comfortable as possible.
How long does recovery take after a tooth extraction?
Most simple extractions heal within a few days to a week. The socket continues to fill in with bone over several weeks, but your child will typically feel back to normal within a few days. Following the aftercare instructions we provide will support a smooth recovery.
Does pulling a baby tooth early cause problems?
It can, if the space is not properly managed. When a baby tooth is lost too early, neighboring teeth may drift into the gap, potentially blocking the path for the permanent tooth. In these cases, we may recommend a space maintainer to preserve the space and protect your child’s developing bite.
What should my child eat after a tooth extraction?
Stick to soft foods for the first day or two — yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, smoothies (without a straw), and similar options. Avoid hot, hard, or crunchy foods until the area has healed. We’ll provide specific aftercare instructions at your appointment.
When should I call the office after my child’s extraction?
Call us at (303) 757-8844 if your child experiences increasing swelling, a fever, persistent or heavy bleeding, severe pain that isn’t improving, or any other symptoms that concern you. These could be signs of infection or a complication that needs prompt attention.
Can you sedate my child for a tooth extraction if they are anxious?
Yes. For children who are very anxious or who require multiple extractions, we offer sedation and sleep dentistry options. We’ll discuss all options with you and recommend the approach that is safest and most appropriate for your child.
Is it possible to avoid an extraction with other treatments?
We always explore all options before recommending an extraction. Depending on the situation, a tooth may be treatable with a filling, a crown, or other restorative care. Dr. Danso will give you a thorough explanation of all available options so you can make an informed decision.