Extractions
For Kids in Washington D.C. and McLean VA
Pediatric Tooth Extractions at Beverly Pediatric Dentistry
Although primary and permanent teeth are meant to last for their life span, sometimes extraction of teeth is inevitable due to severe crowding, extensive tooth damage, or severe infection.
At Beverly Pediatric Dentistry, we understand that sometimes, despite our best efforts at preventative care, a tooth may need to be removed. Whether it’s a baby tooth that hasn’t fallen out naturally, a permanent tooth damaged by trauma, or a tooth causing overcrowding, our team provides gentle, safe, and comfortable tooth extractions for children.
Why a Tooth Extraction May Be Necessary for your child
Children’s teeth are designed to last a lifetime, but there are circumstances when extraction is the best option, including:
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Severe tooth decay or damage – When cavities or trauma have compromised the tooth beyond repair.
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Overcrowding – Creating space for adult teeth to erupt properly and prevent misalignment.
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Infection – If a tooth becomes severely infected and cannot be saved with a filling or crown.
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Orthodontic preparation – Sometimes teeth must be removed to ensure proper alignment during orthodontic treatment.
Our pediatric dentists carefully evaluate each situation to determine the safest and least invasive approach for your child.
Tooth decay is responsible for over 60% of tooth extractions in children, and for kids ages 5–9 it accounts for nearly 87% of extractions.
Our Gentle Extraction Process
We know that many children feel nervous about dental procedures. At Beverly Pediatric Dentistry, we focus on making extractions stress-free and comfortable:
1. Comprehensive Examination
We assess the tooth, take X-rays if necessary, and discuss the reason for extraction with parents.
2. Pain Management & Sedation Options
Your child can remain calm and relaxed with local anesthesia, or if extra comfort is needed, we offer conscious sedation with nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”). This helps reduce anxiety while keeping your child awake and responsive.
3. Safe Tooth Removal
Our dentists perform extractions efficiently and with minimal discomfort.
4. Post-Extraction Care
We provide clear instructions to ensure proper healing and prevent infection. Parents receive guidance on what to expect after the extraction, including tips for eating, oral hygiene, and monitoring for complications.
Emergency Tooth Extractions
In some cases, urgent extractions are needed to relieve pain, swelling, or infection. Signs that your child may require an emergency extraction include:
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Severe toothache or swelling
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Tooth injury from trauma
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Signs of infection (pus, fever, red gums)
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Loose teeth causing pain or risk to surrounding teeth
If your child experiences any of these, contact us immediately. We prioritize emergency care at both our McLean VA and Washington DC offices to ensure your child gets fast, safe treatment.
Why Choose Beverly Pediatric Dentistry?
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Child‑Focused Care: Our team specializes in making dental visits positive and comfortable.
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Experienced Pediatric Dentists: Dr. Mohammadi and our team have extensive experience performing extractions on children of all ages.
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Conscious Sedation Available: Nitrous oxide helps anxious children feel relaxed and safe.
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Comprehensive Oral Health Support: We don’t just remove teeth — we provide preventative care, guidance, and education for lifelong healthy smiles.
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Emergency Availability: We are here when your child needs urgent attention.
After Your Child's Tooth Extraction: What to Expect
It’s completely normal to feel a little concerned after your child has a tooth removed. Our team at Beverly Pediatric Dentistry is here to help make recovery as smooth and comfortable as possible. Here’s what to expect after the procedure and how to care for your child at home.
Immediately after the procedure:
Using the gauze provided, apply gentle pressure to the extraction site for 15–20 minutes or until the bleeding stops. Mild oozing is normal during the first few hours.
To help protect the blood clot and support proper healing, your child should avoid:
• Spitting
• Rinsing vigorously
• Drinking through a straw
• Touching the area with fingers or tongue
for the first 2–3 hours after the extraction.
We also recommend reducing physical activity for the remainder of the day.
Eating and drinking:
Soft, cool foods are best during the first 24 hours.
Yogurt, smoothies, pudding, applesauce, mashed potato, and ice cream are all good choices.
As your child feels better, they can gradually return to their normal diet.
Avoid crunchy or small foods such as popcorn, nuts, chips, and seeds, as these can irritate the extraction site or become lodged in the healing area.
Brushing & Oral Hygiene:
Your child may brush their teeth gently the evening of the procedure. Some light bleeding is normal.
Avoid brushing directly over the extraction site for the first 24 hours. Keeping the mouth clean while being gentle around the area will help promote healing.
Pain management:
Some soreness is expected after the numbness wears off. Children’s Tylenol® or Motrin®, given according to your child’s weight and age recommendations, may help relieve discomfort.
Giving pain medication before the numbness completely wears off can help your child stay ahead of discomfort.
When to Call Our Office:
Please contact us if your child experiences:
• Bleeding that does not stop after 30–40 minutes of steady pressure
• Fever
• Swelling that worsens after the second day
• Severe or worsening pain not relieved with medication after the second day
• Difficulty eating, drinking, or sleeping due to discomfort
Our team is always happy to answer questions and ensure your child is healing properly.
Schedule Your Child's Tooth Extraction Appointment in McLean VA or Washington DC
Beverly Pediatric Dentistry provides safe, gentle tooth extractions for children at both of our convenient locations.
Our McLean office is located at 1363 Beverly Road Suite 250, McLean, VA 22101—call us at 703-752-2200 to book your appointment on Mondays (10:00 AM - 6:00 PM) or Tuesdays (11:30 AM - 6:00 PM). We proudly serve families in McLean, Reston, Vienna, Arlington, Great Falls, Falls Church, and Tysons Corner.
Our Washington DC office is at 1426 21st NW, 2nd floor, Washington, DC 20036 (Dupont Circle area)—reach us at 202-331-3474 for appointments on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays (9:00 AM - 5:00 PM). We serve families throughout Dupont Circle, Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Columbia Heights, Kalorama Heights, West End, Logan Circle, and Woodley Park.
Don’t wait if your child is experiencing pain or dental issues. Contact Beverly Pediatric Dentistry to schedule your child’s tooth extraction appointment today! We are here to provide outstanding preventative care and tips on maintaining your child’s oral health. Dr. M and our team look forward to working alongside you to ensure your child enjoys a lifetime of healthy smiles!