Children's Tooth Extractions in Larkfield, Kent
Having a tooth removed is never the first option we consider — we always look for ways to save a tooth before recommending extraction. But when removal is genuinely the best course of action for your child's dental health, we make the experience as calm, careful, and straightforward as we can.
A last resort, handled kindly
What is a tooth extraction?
A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket. For children, this most commonly involves baby (milk) teeth, though in some circumstances adult teeth may also need to be removed. Extractions are carried out under local anaesthetic, so your child won't feel pain during the procedure — just some pressure and movement as the tooth is eased out.
At Larkfield Dental Aesthetics, we take great care to make extractions as positive an experience as possible for children. We explain every step beforehand in child-friendly language, work at a pace the child is comfortable with, and never rush.
When might extraction be needed? →
Spotting the need
When might a tooth need removing?
There are several situations where extraction may be the right choice for a child:
- ! A baby tooth is severely decayed and cannot be saved with a filling — leaving it in place could risk infection
- ! A baby tooth hasn't fallen out naturally and is blocking the adult tooth from coming through
- ! A tooth has been badly damaged by injury and cannot be repaired
- ! There is a dental abscess that cannot be treated in any other way
- ! An orthodontist or dentist has recommended extraction to create space for adult teeth to align correctly
- ! A wisdom tooth is causing problems — though this is more relevant in teenagers than young children
What to expect
The procedure, step by step
A straightforward extraction usually takes 15–30 minutes from start to finish. Here's what your child can expect:
We begin by applying a topical numbing gel to the gum, so the anaesthetic injection is as comfortable as possible. Once the area is fully numb, your child shouldn't feel any pain at all.
Your dentist will gently loosen the tooth and ease it out. We talk to your child throughout, letting them know what's happening and encouraging them to relax.
Afterwards, we'll place a small piece of gauze over the socket and ask your child to bite down for a few minutes to help a clot form. We'll give you clear written aftercare instructions before you leave.
Recovery & aftercare
Looking after the socket
Good aftercare helps the socket heal quickly and comfortably. Here's what to do.
Fees & finance
How much does a children's extraction cost?
Extractions are free for children under 18 on the NHS. Please contact us to discuss NHS registration for your child.
Private extraction appointments for children are also available. Please see our Fees & Finance page or call us on 01732 521123 for more information.
Children's dentistry
Related treatments
Questions
Frequently asked
Will my child feel pain during the extraction? +
No. We use a topical gel first to numb the gum, then a local anaesthetic injection so the whole area is fully numb before we start. Your child may feel pressure and some movement, but not pain. If they feel anything sharp, they should raise their hand and we'll stop immediately.
Does it matter if a baby tooth is removed early? +
It can do, yes. Baby teeth hold the space for adult teeth developing beneath them. If a baby tooth is removed early, neighbouring teeth can drift into the gap, potentially blocking the adult tooth or causing crowding. In these cases, we may discuss whether a space maintainer is needed. We'll advise you based on your child's individual situation.
My child's baby tooth is wobbly — should I wait for it to fall out or come in? +
If the tooth is just naturally wobbly and causing no pain or problems, it's usually fine to leave it and let it fall out on its own — this is the natural process and is the best outcome. If it's very painful, causing an infection, or blocking a permanent tooth, please contact us and we'll take a look.
What if my child panics and won't let you do the extraction? +
We never force treatment on a child. If your child is very distressed, we'll stop, reassure them, and discuss the options with you. In some cases, we may suggest rescheduling and trying a familiarisation visit first. For particularly anxious children, we can discuss whether referral for treatment under sedation or general anaesthetic is appropriate.
Ready to book?
Calm, careful, reassuring
Call us on 01732 521123 or email hello@larkfielddentalcare.co.uk — we'd love to help.