Tooth Extraction for Kids in Manhattan, NYC
At SmileWorks NYC, we understand that tooth extraction for your child can be a source of anxiety for both parents and children. Dr. Christine Yeojin Kim and our compassionate team specialize in gentle, minimally invasive tooth extraction procedures designed specifically for children’s unique needs.
What Is Pediatric Tooth Extraction?
Pediatric tooth extraction is a specialized dental procedure that involves the careful removal of a child’s tooth when preservation is no longer possible or beneficial. Unlike adult extractions, pediatric procedures require unique considerations of developing jaw structures, proximity to permanent teeth, and age-appropriate behavior management techniques. While our primary goal is always to preserve natural teeth whenever possible, extractions become necessary in specific situations to protect your child’s overall oral health.
Common reasons for pediatric tooth extraction include severely decayed teeth that cannot be restored with fillings or crowns, baby teeth that haven’t fallen out naturally and are blocking permanent teeth eruption, teeth damaged by trauma, overcrowded teeth requiring orthodontic treatment, and impacted wisdom teeth in teens. Each situation requires careful evaluation and personalized treatment planning.
Dr. Kim’s specialized training in pediatric dentistry ensures that extractions are performed with meticulous attention to your child’s physical comfort and emotional wellbeing. We use gentle techniques, appropriate anesthesia, and child-friendly communication to create a positive experience that won’t leave your child fearful of future dental visits.
Complete Family and Orthodontic Dental Care
Comprehensive dental and orthodontic services for beautiful, healthy smiles at every stage of life.
Our Pediatric Tooth Extraction Services
The application of dental sealants at SmileWorks NYC is a quick, comfortable process that typically takes just a few minutes per tooth. Dr. Kim follows a meticulous procedure to ensure optimal results:
Baby Teeth Extraction
Primary (baby) teeth sometimes require extraction when they don’t fall out naturally and block the proper eruption of permanent teeth. At SmileWorks NYC, we carefully monitor your child’s dental development and recommend extraction only when necessary to prevent orthodontic complications. Dr. Kim uses gentle techniques to remove stubborn baby teeth with minimal discomfort, starting with topical numbing gel followed by carefully administered local anesthesia. Following extraction, we assess whether a space maintainer is needed to preserve proper spacing for permanent teeth. Our approach ensures these routine procedures become positive experiences that support your child’s dental development.
Extraction for Severe Decay or Infection
When tooth decay or infection progresses beyond what can be treated with conservative measures like fillings or pulp therapy, extraction may become necessary to eliminate pain and prevent infection spread. Using advanced 3D imaging, Dr. Kim can precisely evaluate the extent of damage and develop the most efficient extraction plan. For severely infected teeth, we coordinate antibiotics when needed and offer appropriate sedation options to ensure your child remains comfortable throughout the procedure. Our team provides comprehensive aftercare instructions to support healing and discusses replacement options when appropriate to maintain proper dental function and development.
Emergency Tooth Extraction
Dental emergencies can happen unexpectedly—from playground accidents to sports injuries or sudden severe pain. Our practice prioritizes emergency appointments for children experiencing dental trauma or acute pain requiring immediate attention. Dr. Kim’s extensive experience in pediatric emergency care means we can quickly assess the situation, provide prompt pain relief, and perform necessary extractions with minimal stress for your child. We offer same-day appointments whenever possible and provide 24-hour emergency guidance for urgent situations. Our emergency protocols are designed to address both the immediate dental needs and the emotional support required during these stressful situations.
Wisdom Teeth Removal for Adolescents
As children enter adolescence, wisdom teeth (third molars) begin developing and may require removal due to impaction, crowding, or infection risk. Our practice provides comprehensive wisdom teeth evaluation and extraction services tailored specifically for teenage patients. Using panoramic X-rays and 3D imaging, Dr. Kim can predict potential complications and determine optimal timing for extraction—often before problems arise. We offer various sedation options appropriate for teens, ensuring comfort throughout more complex extraction procedures. Our teen-focused approach addresses both the clinical aspects of wisdom teeth removal and the unique communication needs of adolescent patients, creating positive experiences during this common dental milestone.
The entire process takes approximately 5-10 minutes per tooth and is completely painless, requiring no drilling, anesthesia, or removal of tooth structure. Most children find the procedure interesting rather than frightening, especially when each step is explained in child-friendly terms.
Act now for your child's comfort! Timely tooth extraction prevents ongoing pain and protects against more serious dental complications down the road.
Meet Dr. Christine Yeojin Kim and Our Expert Team
Dr. Christine Yeojin Kim leads our pediatric dental team as a Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist dedicated exclusively to children’s oral health.
She has developed particular expertise in treating children with dental anxiety, creating positive experiences that build lifelong dental confidence. Dr. Kim takes the time to build rapport with each child, explaining procedures in age-appropriate language and ensuring they feel empowered throughout their dental journey.
Our supporting team of dental hygienists, assistants, and administrative staff all receive specialized training in pediatric patient management, creating a unified approach to gentle, effective care.
From the moment your family enters our practice, our team works together to ensure every aspect of your child’s extraction experience is as comfortable and positive as possible.
Act now for your child's comfort! Timely tooth extraction prevents ongoing pain and protects against more serious dental complications down the road.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Tooth Extractions at SmileWorks NYC
When would my child need a tooth extraction?
Dr. Christine Yeojin Kim only recommends tooth extraction when it’s absolutely necessary for your child’s health and comfort. Common reasons include severe tooth decay that cannot be repaired with a filling or crown, dental infection or abscess that threatens surrounding teeth, overcrowding that interferes with proper tooth alignment, or trauma from accidents that severely damages a tooth. At SmileWorks NYC, we always explore every possible option to save your child’s natural teeth before considering extraction. Our goal is to preserve their smile whenever possible.
Is tooth extraction safe for children?
Absolutely! Pediatric tooth extraction is a safe, routine procedure when performed by a qualified pediatric dentist like Dr. Kim. She has specialized training in treating children and uses gentle techniques specifically designed for young patients. At SmileWorks Manhattan, we use state-of-the-art equipment and follow strict safety protocols. We also offer sedation options like nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to ensure your child remains comfortable and calm throughout the procedure. Our child-friendly environment helps reduce anxiety for both you and your child.
Will my child experience pain during the extraction?
Dr. Kim ensures your child is completely comfortable during the procedure. We use local anesthesia to numb the area completely, so your child won’t feel any pain during the extraction. For anxious children, we also offer nitrous oxide to help them relax. The procedure itself typically takes just a few minutes. Most children describe feeling only pressure, not pain. Our team is specially trained to work with children and will explain each step in age-appropriate language to help your child feel at ease.
What should I expect after my child's tooth extraction?
After the extraction, Dr. Kim will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing. Your child may experience mild discomfort for 1-2 days, which can be managed with children’s pain medication as directed. We’ll place gauze over the extraction site to control any bleeding, and a blood clot will form to help healing. Your child should rest for the remainder of the day and avoid vigorous activities for 24-48 hours. Most children return to normal activities within a day or two, and complete healing typically occurs within 1-2 weeks.
What can my child eat after a tooth extraction?
For the first few hours after extraction, your child should avoid eating until the numbness wears off completely to prevent accidentally biting their tongue or cheek. Start with soft, cool foods like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, or ice cream. Avoid hot foods, crunchy or hard foods, and using straws for at least 24 hours, as these can disturb the healing blood clot. Dr. Kim will provide a comprehensive list of appropriate foods and when your child can gradually return to their normal diet, usually within a few days.
Will my child need a space maintainer after extraction?
This depends on which tooth was extracted and your child’s age. If a baby tooth is removed significantly before it would naturally fall out, Dr. Kim may recommend a space maintainer to hold the space open for the permanent tooth. This prevents neighboring teeth from shifting and ensures the permanent tooth has room to erupt properly. At SmileWorks, we coordinate with our orthodontic team to ensure optimal spacing and alignment for your child’s developing smile. We’ll discuss whether a space maintainer is necessary during your consultation.
How can I prepare my child for a tooth extraction?
The key is staying calm and positive yourself, as children pick up on parental anxiety. Explain the procedure in simple, reassuring terms – that Dr. Kim will help their tooth feel better and remove any pain they’re experiencing. Let your child ask questions, and we’re happy to answer them during the consultation. Avoid using scary words like “pain” or “hurt.” Instead, focus on how much better they’ll feel afterward. Consider bringing a comfort item like a favorite toy or blanket. Our team at SmileWorks is specially trained to help children feel comfortable and safe.
Are there alternatives to tooth extraction for my child?
At SmileWorks, we always explore conservative treatment options first. Depending on the situation, alternatives might include pulp therapy (like a pulpotomy for baby teeth), dental crowns to restore severely damaged teeth, or antibiotics to treat infections. For orthodontic concerns, early intervention treatments might eliminate the need for extractions. Dr. Kim will thoroughly examine your child’s tooth and discuss all possible treatment options. Extraction is only recommended when it’s truly the best option for your child’s long-term oral health.
How much does pediatric tooth extraction cost in NYC?
The cost varies depending on the complexity of the extraction and whether sedation is needed. Simple extractions typically cost less than surgical extractions. At SmileWorks, we accept all PPO insurance plans, and many dental plans cover medically necessary extractions for children. We’ll verify your insurance benefits and provide a detailed estimate before treatment. We also offer payment plans to make treatment affordable. Don’t let cost prevent your child from getting needed care – untreated dental problems often become more expensive over time.
Your Child's First Dental Visit at SmileWorks
Is your child facing a tooth extraction? Dr. Christine Yeojin Kim and our friendly team at SmileWorks NYC understand this can feel scary, but we’re here to make the experience as comfortable as possible for your little one.
Tooth extractions are sometimes necessary to prevent pain and more extensive treatments later. Our gentle approach in our welcoming Manhattan office ensures your child feels safe and cared for throughout the procedure.
Don’t wait if your child needs a tooth removed—addressing it promptly can prevent discomfort and complications. Contact us today at 646-722-1177 or use our online scheduling system to book your child’s consultation.
Our Central Park South location at 30 Central Park South, Suite 11d, makes pediatric dental care convenient for families throughout Manhattan. Trust SmileWorks NYC to handle your child’s tooth extraction with compassion and skill—we’re committed to making every dental experience positive, even when it involves removing a tooth.
Visit Us
We’re conveniently located in Midtown East, Manhattan. Find us on the 8th floor of the Grand Central Professional Building. Plenty of nearby parking and public transportation options are available.
- 30 Central Park South Suite #11D New York, NY 10019
- 646-722-1177
- Tues-Fri 9am-6:30pm 1st, 3rd Saturdays 9am-2pm