Post-Op Extraction Instructions

Tooth Extractions

The gauze needs to stay in place with biting pressure for 10-20 minutes. This will reduce the amount of bleeding.

Give your child the appropriate dose of over-the-counter Children's Tylenol or Motrin when you take the gauze out.  Your child should only require this medicine for approximately 24 hours.  If pain persists beyond 48 hours, please call our office (919.499.9950).

Allow your child to begin eating only soft foods (mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, yogurt, jello, soup, pudding) for the first 24 hours.  Please avoid sharp, crunchy foods (hard tacos or crunchy chips) because the area may be a sensitive. Encourage plenty of liquids (water, soups).  You can transition to a regular diet after 24 hours.

No spitting for 24 hours. The pressure may dislodge the clot and start the bleeding again.
A clean, healthy mouth heals faster.  Gentle brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush can begin after the first meal.  Also, warm saltwater rinses (1/4 teaspoon of salt dissolved in a glass of warm water) will aid with any discomfort.

Activity should be limited for 24 hours. A nap is often a good idea to allow your child to rest and heal.

Care of the Mouth after Local Anesthetic (Lidocaine Numbing Medicine)

Your child's cheek, lip and tongue will be numb for approximately 1-2 hours. Please be very careful that your child does not bite at his/her cheek or scratch this area. As this area "wakes up" it may feel funny. A self-inflicted bite injury is the most common post-op complication. Please monitor your child closely.

• If the procedure was on the lower teeth... the tongue, the bottom teeth and lip and surrounding tissue will be numb or asleep for approximately 2-3 hours.
• If the procedure was in the upper teeth... the top teeth, top lip and surrounding tissue will be numb or asleep for approximately 2-3 hours.

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.  Please watch your child closely for approximately three hours following the appointment.   It is our recommendation to keep your child on a liquid or soft diet until the anesthetic has worn off.