Let’s face it—it’s never fun having a tooth pulled! But sometimes, it’s the best or only way to ensure that a particular oral health problem doesn’t progress. That said, tooth extractions aren’t limited to just adults; there are times when children need to have their teeth extracted too! If your child is slated to undergo a tooth extraction, here are five helpful tips from your dentist to ensure that their recovery is as smooth and pain-free as possible.
1. Be Mindful of Their Numbness
Immediately following their extraction, your child’s mouth will feel numb for a few hours. It’s crucial to advise them not to bite down on their tongue or cheeks—this could lead to accidental injury! You should also provide drinks and liquid foods for your child until the anesthesia completely wears off. If your child’s numbness isn’t dissipating after a few hours, contact their dentist promptly.
2. Protect the Blood Clot
The blood clot that forms over the extraction site is very important; it’s what covers the socket and promotes healing and is one of the most important contributors to the healing process! For at least 24 hours after the extraction, make sure your child’s blood clot is protected and have them avoid any activities that could dislodge it, such as rinsing their mouth, using a drinking straw, or engaging in strenuous physical activity.
3. Monitor Their Diet
It is crucial that your child adheres to a liquid and soft-food diet immediately following their tooth extraction. Do not let them drink anything through a straw or have any hot foods or beverages. Over the next few days, you can gradually reintroduce solid foods if your child can comfortably chew but have them initially avoid chewing on the side of their pulled tooth.
4. Help Them with Swelling and Pain
It’s normal for your child to experience some mild discomfort and swelling for a few days after the extraction, but this can be reduced by applying cold compresses or ice packs to their face for about 20 minutes at a time. You might also consider administering over the counter pain relievers like ibuprofen to manage mild pain. If these symptoms persist for longer than expected, contact your child’s dentist promptly.
5. Show Caution When Cleaning
Ensure that your child doesn’t clean their teeth near the extraction site for 24 hours after the procedure. The following day, they can begin normally cleaning their teeth near the extraction site and can also use a warm, saltwater mixture to gently rinse their mouth. This will prevent infection and greatly promote healing!
Having a tooth pulled isn’t exactly a walk in the park, but especially for your little one! That said, knowing how to help them recover from their tooth extraction will ensure that their smile is happy and healthy for the foreseeable future.
About the Practice
Temple Choice Dental is proud to serve patients and families in the Temple, TX area. The practice is fortunate to house four incredibly skilled specialists: Dr. Daood Alvi, Dr. Sileshi Assemu, Dr. Shruti Sharma, and Dr. Simrat Sehmi. Their practice is proud to offer several available services including preventive, cosmetic, and restorative options. If your child is recovering from a tooth extraction and you have questions about their aftercare, or if you’d like to arrange a visit, you can contact Temple Choice Dental through their website or over the phone: (254) 727-7144.