Tooth Extraction: Why Only a Dentist Should Perform It

Parents or non-dentists must never extract teeth.

Risks of Non-Professional Extraction

• Incomplete removal → root tip retention, infection, cyst formation.
• Uncontrolled bleeding, damage to adjacent teeth, nerves, sinus, jaw fracture.
• Severe pain, trauma, psychological harm to child.
• No sterile technique → osteomyelitis, sepsis.
• Legal/ethical violation; constitutes unlicensed practice of dentistry.

Proper Care

• Pediatric or general dentist evaluates with clinical exam + radiographs.
• Local anesthesia ± sedation for comfort.
• Atraumatic technique, socket management, post-op instructions.
• Space maintainer if primary molar lost early.

If cost is a barrier, seek community dental clinics, dental schools, or Medicaid/CHIP coverage.