Children require extraction of one or more primary teeth when these teeth cannot be saved. These situations may include extensive decay, localized dental infection (i.e. an abscess or a gum boil), or trauma, where the baby teeth have been severely pushed back, pushed forward, or broken.

Some parents are obviously concerned with the aesthetic and functional effects of removing one or more front baby teeth on the child's speech or feeding habits. Fortunately, there is good evidence that there are no long-term speech impediments in patients with one or more front teeth extracted. Also, we know from our professional experience that once the gum heals, children will be able to eat almost anything, since they can still bite and cut with their remaining teeth. As far as aesthetics are concerned, we can deliver an appliance for your child to replace the missing tooth/teeth.