Every procedure is a little different, and knowing what to expect afterward can make recovery much smoother for both you and your child. Here is what we recommend following each type of treatment. As always, if something does not seem right or you have questions, call us.
After a Cleaning
Gum sensitivity for a day or two after a cleaning is common, particularly if it has been a while since your child’s last visit or if their gums needed extra attention. Warm salt water rinses a few times a day can provide relief. Over-the-counter children’s pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen are fine to use if needed, following the dosing instructions for your child’s age and weight.
After Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride works best when it stays in contact with the teeth. Plan to hold off on eating, drinking, and rinsing for at least 30 minutes after the treatment.
After Sealant Placement
The bite may feel slightly off for a day or so while your child adjusts to the new sealant. This resolves on its own. In the meantime, steer clear of sticky candies, hard foods, and anything crunchy for the first 24 hours to give the sealant time to fully set.
When Your Child Has Been Numbed
Whether your child received local anesthesia for a filling, crown, or other procedure, the same general guidance applies for the hours following the appointment. Numbness can last up to two hours, and young children in particular may not realize they are biting or chewing on a lip, cheek, or tongue. Watch them closely, keep them on soft foods until the feeling returns, and remind them to leave the numb area alone. If they experience discomfort once the anesthetic wears off, children’s acetaminophen or ibuprofen is appropriate at the dose recommended for their age and weight.
After Pulp Treatment
Pulpotomies, pulpectomies, and baby root canals can sometimes cause mild sensitivity in the days following treatment. This is generally manageable with over-the-counter children’s pain relievers. If discomfort is still present after 24 hours, please contact our office so we can take a closer look.
After a Tooth Extraction
The goal after an extraction is to protect the clot that forms in the socket, which is essential for healing. To support this:
- No rinsing, spitting, or drinking through a straw for the rest of the day.
- Keep fingers and tongue away from the site.
- If bleeding persists, fold a small piece of moistened gauze, place it firmly over the socket, and have your child bite down or hold it in place for 30 minutes. Repeat if needed.
- Stick to soft foods for a day or two until eating feels comfortable again.
- Avoid vigorous activity for the remainder of the day.
- Children’s pain relievers can be used as needed for soreness.
If bleeding, swelling, or pain continues beyond 24 hours, please reach out to our office.