If your child needs to get a tooth removed, you might be doing your best to handle and address their fears. While the procedure is relatively quick and painless, you should prepare for the recovery afterward. As a parent, taking the right steps can help your loved one heal more comfortably. Here are six simple tips that you should keep in mind after the procedure.
1.) Follow Their Dentist’s Aftercare Instructions
One of the most important things you can do is to follow their dentist’s instructions! They will give you specific guidelines you should follow to keep your child’s mouth healthy as they recover. Stick with them, and you can feel confident knowing you can avoid complications.
2.) Manage Swelling and Pain
While your loved one might not be in any discomfort right after their visit, they may start to feel sore after the local anesthetic and dental sedation wear off. To give them relief, you should use over-the-counter or prescribed medication as directed. Applying a cold compress to their cheek for about 15-minute intervals can also be helpful.
3.) Stick to Soft Foods
After an extraction, you should change your child’s diet a bit. Soft, cool foods are great options as they are easy to chew while also being gentle. Applesauce, mashed potatoes, and yogurt are great choices to stick to.
Crunchy and hot items can irritate the extraction site, so keep them off your loved one’s plate for the time being! Be sure they don’t use a straw as well, as it can dislodge the blood clot needed for healing.
4.) Encourage Rest
Your child may be a bundle of energy, but make sure they take it easy for a few days. Sports, jumping, and too much running can cause bleeding and delay their recovery. Some calm activities they can do are reading a book, having a movie night, or a friendly game night!
5.) Keep Their Mouth Clean
Oral hygiene is still important to keep in mind, but your child has to be gentle around the extraction site. Make sure they brush and floss their other teeth, but avoid the area where the empty socket is.
6.) Watch Out for Signs of Trouble
Kids often recover quickly from things, but you should still make sure that they are healing smoothly. Persistent bleeding, fever, worsening swelling, and severe discomfort are some signs that can hint at a complication forming, so be sure to call their dentist if you notice any of them!
The easy tips above can promote healing after your child’s tooth extraction. While it doesn’t have to be stressful, keep them in mind to help them feel their best while their smile gets better.
About the Practice
At All About Kids Dentistry, you benefit from a team of skilled dentists who look after your child’s oral health. By offering a wide range of treatments, including extractions, we can give your child the problem-free grin they deserve. While getting a tooth removed may not be preferred, we work to make sure your loved one is comfortable and has a smooth recovery afterward. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment or call our office at (847) 870-0475.