Post-Operative Care Guide

Whether the procedure was on the top or bottom jaw, your child’s lips, tongue, and cheeks will feel "asleep" for approximately two hours.

The Risk: Children often scratch, suck, or chew on numb tissue because it feels strange. This can cause severe swelling or abrasions.
Action: Monitor your child closely until the feeling returns.
Diet: Stick to a liquid or soft diet (smoothies, yogurt, applesauce) until the numbness wears off to prevent accidental biting of the cheek or tongue.

Proper healing depends on protecting the surgical site.

Do Not: Use a straw, spit excessively, or drink carbonated beverages (soda) for the remainder of the day.
Activity: Avoid strenuous physical activity for several hours.
Managing Bleeding: Some oozing is normal. If bleeding is sustained, place a clean cotton gauze (or a moistened tea bag) over the area and have the child bite down firmly for 15 minutes. Repeat if necessary.
Pain Relief: Use Children’s Tylenol, Advil, or Motrin as directed.

If your child has experienced a mouth injury, healing requires a clean environment and close observation.

Hygiene: Keep the area as clean as possible using a soft, damp washcloth.
Swelling: Apply ice for the first 24 hours to keep swelling to a minimum.
Diet: Maintain a soft diet for 2–3 days. Avoid sweets and extremely hot or cold foods.
What to Watch For:

Darkening: If the tooth turns dark, the nerve may be affected.
Infection: Look for "gum boils" (small bumps on the gums).
Re-occurring Swelling: Contact us immediately if swelling returns or an infection is noticed.

Sealants protect the deep grooves on the biting surfaces of teeth, but they require a little extra care.

Avoid Hard Foods: Refrain from chewing on ice, hard candy, or sticky "jawbreaker" style treats, which can fracture or pull the sealant off.
The Sides Still Count: Sealants only protect the top of the tooth. Daily brushing and flossing are still required to prevent cavities on the sides and between teeth.

If your child’s gums are tender or bleed slightly after a cleaning, it is usually due to underlying inflammation from plaque buildup.

Salt Water Rinse: Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of warm water. Have your child rinse 2–3 times per day for the next 2–3 days.
When to Call: Most tenderness should resolve within a few days. If discomfort persists for more than 7 days, please call our office.