Care immediately following surgery
- Keep pressure on the gauze pad that your doctor placed over the surgical area by having your child gently biting down. Dampen the gauze sponge with water if it begins to dry out. Try to maintain constant pressure in intervals of 45-60 minutes, repeating as often as needed, or until bleeding lessens. Change the gauze as needed.
- Keep your child's head elevated and have them sit down and watch a movie or do something relaxing. Avoid sports and running around until the blood has had a chance to clot and form a scab over the wound.
- Keep your child's mouth clean by brushing areas around the surgical site. Try to keep your child from touching or picking at the extraction site.
- Use ice packs to control swelling by placing them on facial areas near extraction.
- Take all prescribed medications accordingly. If any itching or swelling occurs, contact the practice immediately, or go to the nearest emergency room.
- Try to eat softer foods, preferably high in protein.
- Keep your child hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
After your child's tooth has been extracted the healing process begins. Baby teeth extractions in health kids can heal within just a day or two. Permanent tooth extractions can take a few days to heal. If you child is medically compromised or has problems with wound healing, the process can be longer. Dr. Ashley and the Sky Pediatric Dentistry team will work with you so that you understand the step-by-step process for caring for your child after dental extractions.
Possible complications after a tooth extraction
Bleeding
Bone or Tooth sequestra (dead bone or tooth fragments)
Dry socket
Numbness
Swelling
Trismus (difficulty opening and closing mouth)
If you experience a sore jaw and difficulty chewing or swallowing, do not be alarmed. Occasionally patients’ chewing muscles and jaw joints remain sore 3-5 days after permanent tooth extraction. This soreness can also make it difficult to open and close your mouth. Soreness should eventually subside.
If you have any worries, or are experiencing any complications not mentioned, please contact our practice immediately so that we may address your concerns.