If the procedure was in the lower jaw; the tongue, teeth, lip and surrounding tissue will be numb or asleep.
If the procedure was in the upper jaw; the teeth, lip and surrounding tissue will be numb or asleep.
Often, children do not understand the effects of local anesthesia and may chew, scratch, suck or play with the numb lip, tongue or cheek. These actions can cause minor irritations or they can be severe enough to cause swelling and abrasions to the tissue.
Monitor your child closely for approximately two hours following the appointment. It is often wise to keep your child on liquids until the anesthetic has worn off.
Care of the Mouth after Extractions
Do not scratch, chew, suck or rub the lips, tongue or cheek while they feel numb or asleep. The child should be watched closely so he/she does not injure his/her lip, tongue or cheek before the anesthesia wears off.
Keep fingers and tongue away from the extraction area.
Bleeding - Some bleeding is to be expected. If sustained bleeding occurs, place cotton gauze firmly over the extraction area and bite down and hold in place for 15-20 minutes. This can also be accomplished with a tea bag. Repeat if necessary.
Maintain a soft diet for a day or two, or until the child feels comfortable eating normally again.
Avoid strenuous exercise or physical activity until the next day.
No swimming until the next day.
It’s OK to drink out of a straw and the teeth can be brushed before bedtime. Some additional bleeding may occur.
Pain - For discomfort use Children’s ibuprofen or acetaminophen as directed for the age of the child. If a medicine was prescribed, then follow the directions on the bottle.
Care of the Mouth after Trauma
Please keep the traumatized area as-clean-as possible. A soft wash cloth often works well during healing to aid the process.
Watch for darkening of traumatized teeth. This could be an indication of bruising of the nerve (pulp) or possibly a dying nerve (pulp).
If the swelling should re-occur, our office needs to see the patient as-soon-as possible. Ice should be administered during the first 24 hours if possible, to keep the swelling to a minimum. Popsicles are always a good option.
Watch for infection (gum boils) in the area of trauma. If infection is noticed - call the office so the patient can be seen as soon as possible.
Maintain a soft diet for two to three days, or until the child feels comfortable eating normally again.
Avoid foods that are extremely hot or spicy.
If antibiotics or pain medicines are prescribed, be sure to follow the prescription as directed.
Please do not hesitate to call the office if there are any questions.
