Post Operative Instructions

Care of the Mouth After Local Anesthetic

Your child has had local anesthetic for his/her dental procedure:

  • Therefore, the tongue, teeth, lip and surrounding tissue will be numb or asleep.
  • Often, children do not understand the effects of local anesthesia, and may chew, scratch or play with the numb area. These actions can cause minor irritations or swelling and abrasions to the tissue. Please watch your child closely for approximately two hours following the appointment.

Care of the Mouth After Extractions

Most of the bleeding should have subsided by the time you have left the office. It is important to keep pressure on the extraction area for about 20 minutes after extraction. This can be done with the gauze provided when you left the office.

  • PAIN: a liquid pain reliever such as Motrin or Tylenol is recommended to control discomfort.
  • DIET: a soft diet is recommended for the first 24 hours. You can transition to a regular diet as the gum tissue begins to heal.
  • ORAL HYGIENE: Brushing gently around the extraction site can be started immediately. Warm salt water rinses (1/4 teaspoon to a glass of water) often aids with any discomfort.

Care of the Mouth After Filling or Crowns

It is normal for your child to have some soreness where treatment was rendered. Children's Tylenol or Motrin should alleviate the pain.

Care of the Mouth After Space Maintainers

Expect some discomfort after a space maintainer is placed. The discomfort should resolve in 2-3 days. Children's Motrin and a soft diet during this time will help with any discomfort.

Dental Trauma Affecting Permanent Tooth

  • PAIN: a liquid pain reliever such as Motrin or Tylenol is recommended to control discomfort.
  • DIET: a soft diet is recommended for the next few weeks. In particular, avoid using the injured tooth for biting or tearing.
  • SPORTS: try to avoid any further injury to the damaged tooth. Please wear a sports mouth guard and wear it for the next few weeks.

Care After Oral Sedation

For further information see Dental Treatment Options

Care After Outpatient General Anesthesia

For further information see Dental Treatment Options