Post-Operative Instructions following Baby Tooth Extraction

• Your child has had one or more teeth “wiggled” out.
• The gauze should stay in place with biting pressure for 30 minutes. This helps reduce the amount of bleeding.
• Some post-operative discomfort is normal. In the event of more severe pain, you may give your child the appropriate dose of children’s Tylenol, Motrin or Advil when you take the gauze out (NO ASPIRIN). Your child may need this for approximately 12 to 24 hours. If pain persists beyond 48 hours, please call our office.
• Your child should eat only soft, bland foods for the first couple of days- nothing sharp, crunchy or too hot or cold because the area may be sensitive. Encourage plenty of liquids (water, soups, etc.) NO SODA.
• No spitting or drinking through a straw or “sippy cup” The force can start the bleeding again.
• A clean mouth heals faster. Gentle brushing around the extraction site can be started immediately along with warm salt water rinses (1/4 teaspoon to a glass of water) to aid with any discomfort.
• Activity may need to be limited. Sometimes a nap is a good idea.

• Swelling after an extraction is not uncommon and should not cause alarm. If this occurs apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the exterior of the face for 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off as needed in the 24 hours following tooth removal. Your child’s lip, tongue and cheek may be numb for approximately 1-2 hours. Please be very careful that your child does not bite at his/her cheek or pick at this area. When the anesthetic wears off, the area may feel funny to your child. The tendency is for the child to want to chew on their cheek or lip in the area. A self-inflicted bite injury is the most common post-op complication. Please keep an eye on your child!DON’T LET THEM BITE THEIR CHEEK!
• Should you have any questions don’t hesitate to call the office at (941) 408-7645.
  

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