PEDIATRIC ORAL SURGERY
Gilbert, AZ
“If I could give this place a million stars, I would! The office staff, dentist as well as the anesthesiologists were all so amazing, kind, and show compassion! My 4yr old had to have dental surgery and it was extensive! They were so accommodating and they had no issues following up with my concerns! The anesthesiologist answered any and all texts and calls that I had as well!. . .”
Jessica P.
Ensure a Safe and Comfortable Surgical Experience for Your Child
At our practice, we always aim for the gentlest possible approach, but when surgery is the best path forward, you can feel confident knowing your child is in skilled, caring hands. Comfort is at the heart of what we do—our team works with precision and compassion to make every step as pain-free and reassuring as possible. Drawing on years of experience and a true passion for treating young patients, we strive to complete procedures efficiently and support faster healing. We’ll equip you with clear, easy-to-follow post-operative care directions, helping you guide your child’s recovery with ease. With our team leading the way, pediatric oral surgery can feel calm and approachable, not overwhelming.
Types of Oral Surgeries
Root Canals
When a child’s tooth is badly damaged by decay or trauma, a root canal may be the best solution to save it. This treatment is designed for cavities that extend deep enough to affect the nerve. During the procedure, the infected tissue inside the tooth is carefully removed, then replaced with a safe, medicated filling. To restore strength and function, the tooth is finished with a protective crown or cap, allowing your child to keep their natural tooth.
Extractions
Removing a tooth is always considered a final option, but sometimes it is necessary to protect a child’s oral health. Extractions may be required if a tooth is too damaged to repair, badly infected, or creating crowding issues. Once the tooth is removed, our team will provide guidance and treatment options to restore your child’s healthy smile and prevent future dental problems.
Common Reasons for Dental Extractions:
- Severe infection
- Extensive decay or damage
- Severe crowding
Malocclusions
Malocclusion occurs when the teeth or jaws don’t fit together correctly, leading to bite problems such as overbite, underbite, open bite, or crossbite. These issues can develop from genetics, jaw injuries, or even prolonged habits like thumb-sucking. In severe cases, malocclusions can affect speech, chewing, and overall facial appearance.
While many bite concerns can be corrected with orthodontic treatment, complex cases may require corrective jaw surgery. This procedure involves repositioning the jaw with plates, screws, or wires to achieve proper alignment. Orthodontics, such as braces or aligners, may also be recommended afterward to stabilize results.
If left untreated, malocclusions can lead to:
- Missing teeth
- Tooth decay
- Cracked, chipped, or worn teeth
- Speech difficulties
- Sleep disturbances
- Sores on the inside of the cheeks
- TMJ pain and headaches
- Changes in facial appearance
For more information on pediatric oral surgery and to learn which treatment is proper for your child, please call us at 855-637-9928 to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions.
Is pediatric oral surgery safe for my child?
Yes, pediatric oral surgery is safe for your child. During the procedure, we use modern equipment and focus on your child’s comfort and safety. Before surgery, our dentists review your child’s medical history, discuss anesthesia options, and explain the process in detail to ensure a smooth and secure experience.
How can I prepare my child emotionally and physically for surgery?
Preparation begins with calm reassurance. Explain the procedure in simple, positive terms, and let your child know that the goal is to help their mouth feel better. Avoid words that may cause anxiety, such as “hurt” or “shot.” Physically, follow all pre-surgery instructions — these may include fasting before anesthesia and limiting certain medications. Bring your child’s favorite blanket or toy for comfort, and plan for a quiet, restful day following surgery.
What should my child's post-operative diet look like, and how long will recovery take?
After surgery, stick to soft foods such as yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods. Most children recover within a few days, with complete healing usually in 1–2 weeks.
What signs of complications should we watch for at home?
Most children recover quickly after oral surgery, but it’s important to stay alert for any unusual symptoms. Contact our office if your child experiences excessive bleeding, persistent swelling, fever, increasing pain, or difficulty eating or drinking. Mild swelling and tenderness are normal for the first few days, but if symptoms worsen instead of improving, we want to see your child right away to ensure proper healing.
Will my child need follow-up visits after surgery?
Yes, follow-up visits are an essential part of the healing process. During these appointments, we check your child’s recovery, remove any sutures if necessary, and confirm that the surgical area is healing properly. These visits also give us a chance to answer any questions you or your child may have about home care, eating, or returning to normal activities.
How do you manage pain after pediatric oral surgery?
We take a gentle and proactive approach to pain management. Most children do well with over-the-counter pain relief as recommended by our dentists. Applying a cool compress can help reduce swelling and discomfort. We also provide clear home care instructions, including how to keep the surgical site clean and what foods to offer during recovery.