Oral Surgery for Children: What Parents Need to Know

Although oral surgery is usually performed on teens and adults, there are times when younger children may have to undergo oral surgery. If your child needs oral surgery due to an injury, an unerupted baby tooth, or a medical condition, their dentist or pediatrician may refer them to our office. It’s natural to worry about what to expect. Dr. Szutz and his staff will work closely with you and your child to ensure the process is as stress-free as possible.

The most common oral surgeries performed on children include:

• Removing baby teeth
• Extraction of unerupted permanent teeth
• Extraction of severely decayed or damaged permanent teeth
• Frenectomy (tongue-tie release)
• Injury or facial trauma

Considerations for Children

When creating a surgical plan, Dr. Szutz considers your child’s physical and emotional development. This includes any anesthesia or sedation options and techniques for ensuring their comfort. He also talks to you, their parent, about any potential anxiety or fear they may experience so that he can minimize these emotions and reassure your child. His goal is to make sure the oral surgery experience is positive and successful.

Preparing Your Child for Dental Surgery

As a parent, your role in preparing your child for surgery is crucial. We will schedule the procedure at your child’s initial oral surgery consultation. Once it is planned, it’s up to you to ensure your child is prepared for a minimally stressful experience. We’ll introduce your child to the staff and let them get acquainted with the office so they are familiar with their surroundings on the day of surgery.

Explain the surgery to your child in a simple, positive way. Avoid using words like “pain” and focus on how the procedure will make them feel better after they recover. You can be honest and tell them they will be uncomfortable after the surgery but focus on the results rather than the procedure itself. Let them know that they will be asleep or relaxed during the oral surgery.

Role-playing as a surgeon and patient can make your child feel more in control. Let them poke around in your mouth and look at your teeth. Switch roles and explain what Dr. Szutz will be doing. Familiarize them with the feeling of the doctor working on their teeth.

Maintaining a positive attitude about your child’s upcoming oral surgery is crucial. Even very young children are intuitive about their parents’ emotions. If you are worried or agitated, they will pick up on it. By staying calm and positive when talking about their surgery, you can empower your child and help them feel more at ease.

Acknowledge your child’s fears. If your child is nervous or worried, let them know their feelings are normal but that we will do everything we can to make them comfortable. Remind them that their surgery is meant to help them.

Create a comforting recovery environment at home. Your child will be groggy and uncomfortable after surgery. Be sure to have a comfortable place for them set up at home with pillows, blankets, and a favorite movie, video, or books. Don’t forget their favorite stuffed animal or doll! Be sure to have some soothing beverages and soft foods approved by our office in the fridge.

Preparing your child for oral surgery makes the process easier for everyone involved. Reducing their fears and anxiety will make the experience less stressful and recovery easier. If you have any questions before or after your child’s oral surgery, the Alaska Oral Surgery Group staff is always available to help. Feel free to call us any time at Alaska Oral Surgery Group Office Phone Number 907-726-1726.