Post Operative Care

Care of the Mouth after Local Anesthetic (numbing)

After numbing the upper teeth, the teeth, gums, cheeks, and lips will be numb for around one hour after treatment. After numbing the lower teeth, the teeth, tongue, cheeks and lips will be numb for two to three hours after treatment.
Often children do not understand the effects of local anesthesia, and may chew, scratch or play with the numb lip, tongue or cheek. Watch your child carefully for the duration of the anesthetic.

Your child will benefit from an appropriate dosage of ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol). If taken prior to appointment, take again as recommended by the directions. If no Tylenol or Motrin was taken prior to treatment, give appropriate dosage as soon as possible after the appointment.
Room temperature liquids or soft foods are suggested during the time the anesthesia is in effect to help prevent biting or chewing on the tongue, cheeks or lips.

Care of the Mouth after Extractions

Do not let your child scratch, chew, suck, or rub the lips, tongue, or cheek while they feel numb or asleep. Watch your child carefully for the duration of the anesthetic.

Do not use a straw, go swimming, or rinse the mouth forcefully for two days.
Keep fingers and tongue away from the extraction area. Keep the rest of the mouth clean with regular brushing and flossing in order to keep bacterial levels low in the mouth. This will promote quicker healing.

Bleeding - Some bleeding is to be expected. If unusual or sustained bleeding occurs, place cotton gauze firmly over the extraction area and bite down or hold in place for fifteen minutes. This can also be accomplished with a tea bag. Repeat if necessary.

Maintain a soft diet for a day or two, or until your child feels comfortable eating normally again.

Avoid strenuous exercise or physical activity for several hours after the extraction.

For discomfort use ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) as directed for the age of your child. If a medicine was prescribed, then follow the directions on the bottle.

Please do not hesitate to contact the office if there are any questions.

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