Compassionate Dentistry for Every Child
Professional Children’s Tooth Extractions
in Bunbury
Why Your Child May Need a Tooth Removed
When Might a Child Need a Tooth Extraction?
- Over-Retained Teeth
When baby teeth don’t fall out naturally, they can block the eruption of adult teeth. Timely removal can help prevent crowding and support proper alignment as adult teeth begin to erupt.
- Severe Decay
Teeth with extensive decay that cannot be restored may need to be removed to prevent pain and infection. Extraction also protects nearby baby teeth and developing adult teeth from damage or the spread of bacteria.
- Dental Injury
A cracked or broken tooth from an accident may not heal properly, especially if the root is damaged. Removing the tooth can help protect surrounding teeth and support healthy oral development and proper bite alignment.
- Orthodontic Needs
To create space before orthodontic treatment, a dentist may remove specific baby teeth. Gentle tooth removal for kids can guide adult teeth into alignment and support bite development as the jaw continues to grow.
How Tooth Extractions Support Your Child’s Oral Health
- Pain Relief
Severely decayed or damaged teeth can cause persistent discomfort. Removing the affected tooth can help relieve pain. This allows your child to eat, sleep, and speak more comfortably without ongoing irritation or sensitivity.
- Improved Alignment
When overcrowding affects the mouth, removing certain baby teeth can help guide adult teeth into better positions. This supports a healthier bite and may reduce the need for future orthodontic treatment.
- Infection Prevention
Teeth with advanced decay can lead to infection or abscesses. Child-friendly dental extractions remove the source of infection, protecting nearby teeth and reducing the risk of spreading bacteria to developing adult teeth.
- Healthy Development
Kids’ dental extractions in Bunbury can support long-term oral health by making space for adult teeth to emerge. This encourages balanced jaw development and helps maintain proper spacing as your child’s mouth continues to grow.
We Accept CDBS—Check Your Child’s Eligibility Now
Book a visit today to see if your child qualifies for bulk-billed dental care under the CDBS. No referral is needed; just bring your Medicare details.
Why Bunbury Families Choose Us for Their Kids’ Smiles
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- Proudly Bunbury Locals
- We’re part of the Bunbury community, and many of us are parents ourselves. That means we understand local families, schools, and what makes kids feel safe and supported. Our team is here for the long haul. You can count on consistency, familiarity, and care from people who genuinely care about your child’s well-being.
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- Serving Since 2006
- For nearly 20 years, we’ve cared for Bunbury kids with kindness, patience, and clinical know-how. Generations of local families have grown up in our chairs, and some of those kids now bring in children of their own. We’re proud of that trust, and we work hard to earn it at every visit.
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- Gentle Dental Care for Every Generation
- Children’s dentistry is about more than teeth—it’s about building confidence and healthy habits early on. We make dental visits fun, friendly, and judgement-free. Whether your child is chatty or shy, nervous or fearless, we tailor every appointment to them. Plus, we offer checkups for the whole family in one spot—easy and convenient.
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- Personalised Care That Feels Right for You
- No rushed appointments. No scary tools. Just plenty of time, gentle explanations, and a whole lot of patience. We know every child is different, and every parent wants what’s right for their child. That’s why we listen first, explain clearly, and work with you to help create a positive experience from the very start.
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- Driven by Our Values
- Honesty, integrity, and a genuine love for helping kids—that’s what drives our team. There’s no upselling or scare tactics, just thoughtful, age-appropriate care from people you can trust. We care for your child like we’d care for our own, always focused on comfort, safety, and building trust for the long term.
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- Advanced Technology for Comfort and Precision
- Our kid-friendly technology helps make visits smoother and more comfortable. From gentle cleaning tools like EMS Airflow to low-radiation imaging and intraoral scanners, we use advanced tech to diagnose and care for young smiles with precision. All this while keeping things relaxed and simple for kids. Better tools mean better care, less stress, and more smiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a tooth extraction painful for kids?
Children’s tooth extractions in Bunbury are generally not painful during the procedure due to local anaesthetics. The area around the tooth is numbed so your child does not feel sharp pain, although they may notice pressure or movement.
After the anaesthetic wears off, mild soreness or discomfort is common. The discomfort usually lasts one to two days and can often be managed with children’s pain relief medications, if recommended. Pain levels vary from child to child. Some children feel mild discomfort, while others may be more sensitive during recovery.
To support your child’s recovery, closely follow the aftercare instructions from the dentist, especially during the first 24 hours.
How do I prepare my child for a tooth extraction?
Helping your child feel calm and prepared can ease anxiety and improve their comfort during the procedure and recovery. Here are practical steps to guide you before the appointment:
- Talk to your child in simple terms:
Let your child know that the dentist will help take out a tooth that’s ready to go. Avoid using words like “needle” or “pull,” which may sound frightening. Focus on how the procedure helps keep their mouth healthy. - Stay calm and confident:
Children often take emotional cues from adults. Speak calmly and avoid showing nervousness. Reassurance through your tone and presence can help them feel secure. - Encourage a good night’s sleep:
A well-rested child is more likely to feel settled on the day of the appointment. Aim for their regular bedtime routine the night before. - Follow pre-visit instructions:
If the dentist provides any dietary or medication advice (such as avoiding food before a sedative), follow these carefully. Not all extractions require fasting, so ask if you’re uncertain. - Dress comfortably:
Cosy clothes like a soft jumper or pyjamas (if allowed) can help your child feel at ease in the chair. - Bring a comforting item:
A favourite soft toy or blanket may help your child feel safe in a new environment.
Are children put to sleep for tooth extractions?
Not all children need to be put to sleep for a tooth extraction. It depends on the complexity of the procedure and your child’s needs. A local anaesthetic often provides sufficient pain control for a simple extraction. This numbs the area around the tooth so your child stays awake but doesn’t feel sharp pain.
For children who are especially anxious or have special needs, the dentist might recommend sedation. It may also be considered for more complex procedures, such as removing multiple teeth or an impacted baby tooth. Sedation methods are only recommended when needed and will be discussed with you before the procedure. The dentist will assess your child’s age, medical history, and comfort level before recommending a sedation approach.
Can I request general anaesthesia for my child?
You can ask about general anaesthesia, but it’s not automatically offered for all extractions. The decision depends on your child’s individual needs and the nature of the procedure. This option is only provided in approved facilities with trained professionals. This usually involves a referral, and the procedure is carried out in a hospital setting, where monitoring is provided throughout the process. The dentist or oral health provider will assess several factors before recommending general anaesthesia, including:
- Your child’s age and ability to cope:
Younger children or those who struggle with staying still may need deeper sedation. - Medical history and overall health:
Existing conditions, such as asthma, may affect which sedation methods are safe to use. - Risks and benefits:
The dentist will consider each option’s benefits and risks based on your child’s situation.
How long does it take a child to recover from a tooth extraction?
Most children recover from a tooth extraction within three to five days. The initial healing phase usually takes 24 to 48 hours. Your child may feel mild soreness during this time, especially once the local anaesthetic wears off. Tenderness may continue for up to five days, but symptoms usually improve steadily with proper care. Here’s what to expect during recovery:
Days 1 to 2:
Mild swelling, slight bleeding, or tenderness around the site is common. Encourage rest and offer soft, cool foods such as mashed potatoes or lukewarm soup.Days 3 to 5:
By this stage, most children are comfortable enough to resume usual activities, and discomfort often fades.- Complete healing:
The gum usually closes over within one to two weeks, depending on the extraction site and how well aftercare instructions are followed.
What can kids eat after a tooth extraction?
After the tooth extractions in Bunbury, it’s ideal for children to eat soft, cool or lukewarm foods that won’t irritate the area. Recommended foods include:
Mashed potatoes: Soft and easy to eat without chewing near the extraction site.
Yoghurt: Cool and soothing, with no need for chewing.
Smoothies (without a straw): Nutrient-rich and gentle, but avoid using straws as suction can dislodge the blood clot.
Soup (lukewarm): Blended vegetable soups are ideal. Serve them lukewarm, as hot food may irritate the area.
Scrambled eggs: Soft and easy to chew.
Pasta or noodles: Well-cooked and soft, without spicy sauces.
- Custard or jelly: Gentle on the mouth and comforting for kids.
Encourage your child to chew on the opposite side of the mouth and offer small, frequent meals. As healing progresses over three to five days, more foods, such as soft sandwiches or steamed vegetables, can gradually be reintroduced.
How do I comfort my child after dental surgery?
Comforting your child after dental surgery involves physical care, emotional support, and a calm, healing environment. Recovery experiences vary. Offering calm support and following aftercare advice can help your child feel more at ease. Here are helpful ways to support your child during recovery:
Stay close and offer reassurance:
Your presence alone can help reduce anxiety. Speak gently and let them know it’s okay to rest and take things slowly.Manage discomfort carefully:
Use age-appropriate pain relief as recommended by your dentist. A cold compress placed gently on the cheek can help reduce swelling.Create a calm environment:
Provide a quiet space for rest that includes their favourite blanket, soft toy, or book. Avoid loud activities or anything that could increase stress.Stick to soft foods:
Offer meals like yoghurt, mashed vegetables, or custard. This supports healing by reducing chewing strain and providing the body with energy.Offer small sips of water:
Staying hydrated is important, but avoid straws for the first 24 hours to protect the healing site.- Encourage distraction through gentle activities:
Watching a movie, drawing, or listening to calming music can shift focus away from discomfort.
Is tooth extraction safe for children?
Yes, tooth extractions are generally safe for children when performed by a qualified dental professional. The process is carefully planned and includes steps to help keep your child comfortable, such as using local anaesthetics and smaller, child-sized instruments. Before the procedure, the dentist will assess your child’s overall health and dental condition. They will also evaluate which tooth needs to be removed. Each step is explained clearly to help create a calm and supportive experience.
Is it bad to pull a child’s tooth out at home?
Removing a very loose baby tooth at home may be safe sometimes, but only if the tooth is close to falling out naturally. If a baby’s tooth is very loose, it may fall out naturally through normal activities, such as chewing or gentle brushing, without pulling. However, forcing a tooth out before it’s ready can cause pain, bleeding, or damage to the surrounding gums.
If you’re uncertain whether a tooth is ready, it’s better to ask your dentist. Sometimes, a baby’s tooth may not fall out naturally. Professional removal may be necessary in these cases, especially if the tooth is blocking an adult tooth or is affected by decay. Allowing teeth to fall out naturally or asking a dentist for advice helps reduce discomfort and lowers the risk of complications.
What are the risks of not getting a tooth extracted?
Delaying or avoiding a necessary tooth extraction can lead to several oral health problems, especially if the tooth is infected, damaged, or interfering with new teeth coming through. Here are some risks if a problem tooth is not removed:
Pain or swelling:
A damaged or infected tooth can cause ongoing discomfort, which may worsen over time.Infection:
Infected baby teeth can spread bacteria to the surrounding tissue or even affect adult teeth that are developing underneath.Crowding or alignment issues:
If a baby tooth does not fall out on time, it can block an adult tooth, which leads to crowding or misalignment.Damage to nearby teeth:
A decayed or infected tooth can affect the health of adjacent teeth and gums.- Difficulty chewing or eating:
A painful or loose tooth may make it harder for your child to eat comfortably, affecting their nutrition.
How long does it take for kids’ teeth to grow back after being pulled?
If a baby tooth is removed, the adult tooth underneath typically takes time to come through. Most adult teeth erupt within 6 to 12 months, though some may take longer, up to 18 months, especially if the tooth was removed early. Several factors influence how soon the new tooth appears:
Your child’s age and stage of dental development:
Children lose baby teeth at different ages. If a tooth is removed before it becomes loose, the adult tooth may not yet be ready to emerge.Which tooth was removed:
Front teeth (such as incisors) tend to erupt earlier, while molars usually appear later in a child’s dental development.- Whether the adult tooth is ready to come through:
If the adult tooth underneath hasn’t fully developed or moved into position, it may take longer to erupt.
