Extractions

Bleeding:   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 30 minutes after extraction. This can be done with the gauze provided when you left the office. If the site begins to bleed again, have the child bite on wet gauze for 10 minutes.

Swelling:   Most likely swelling after an extraction is due to your child biting the area that was anesthetized without realizing it. Place ice bags around the area if it is the day of extraction. Call to make an appointment to evaluate the severity of the swelling. If the swelling is rapidly progressing call us as soon as possible.

Space Maintainers

Becomes Loose:   If the appliance is very loose and can be easily removed from mouth, take appliance out and place in a safe place. If slightly loose, leave in mouth. Call for an appointment to have appliance recemented as soon as possible.

Teeth Are Coming In:   If the adult teeth are starting to erupt where the prematurely lost baby was please make an appointment to have your child evaluated for the removal of the space maintainer.

Fillings & Crowns

Pain:   It is normal for your child to have some soreness in the area they had treatment done. Children’s Tylenol or Motrin should alleviate the pain. If your child is still having difficulties after a day or two, please call the office for a follow up appointment. If the pain is severe, not alleviated by pain medications, or swelling occurs please call as soon as possible to discuss the situation with the doctor.

Swelling:   If your child experiences swelling after treatment, it is likely due to lip biting in the anesthetized area. However, if you do not see teeth marks in the area and the swelling is increasing please call the office as soon as possible.

Lip Biting After Treatments
Occasionally children will bite themselves in the area they were anesthetized without realizing it. The area can become quite swollen and painful. Your child will need to remain on a soft diet until the area heals to avoid re-injuring themselves.

Give Children’s Motrin/Tylenol as needed for the pain.   Children deserve to experience a gentle, caring approach to their dental care. A positive dental experience will help them build confidence and knowledge, setting a great precedent for their future dental health. Your child will always be grateful for the gift of a beautiful, healthy smile.