Whether it’s a baby tooth that wouldn’t fall out on its own or a decayed tooth that needed to come out, tooth extractions can be a little scary for both kids and parents. While the procedure itself is usually quick and safe, healing properly afterward is key to preventing discomfort or complications. Here are six simple and effective ways to help your child heal smoothly after a tooth extraction.
Follow Your Dentist’s Post-Op Instructions
Your dentist will provide you with specific aftercare guidelines tailored to your child’s needs. This typically includes instructions on when to eat, how to manage bleeding, and what signs to watch for. Be sure to follow these carefully, and don’t hesitate to call the dental office if you have any questions or concerns. Clear communication ensures your child stays on the right path to healing.
Control Bleeding with Gauze
After the extraction, your child will need to bite down on a piece of gauze to help stop the bleeding. This pressure helps form a blood clot, which is crucial for healing. Encourage your child to keep the gauze in place for at least 30 to 45 minutes and replace it as needed. Make sure they avoid spitting or sucking on straws, which can dislodge the clot and delay healing.
Offer Soft, Cool Foods
For the first 24 to 48 hours, stick to soft, soothing foods that won’t irritate the extraction site. Applesauce, yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and smoothies (without a straw) are great options. Avoid anything too hot, crunchy, spicy, or chewy. Keeping food soft and gentle helps prevent pain and protects the healing area from further irritation.
Manage Pain and Swelling
Some discomfort and mild swelling are normal after a tooth extraction. Use over-the-counter children’s pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen as recommended by your child’s dentist. A cold compress or ice pack placed gently on the cheek near the extraction site can also help reduce swelling and numb any soreness. Make sure to wrap the ice pack in a soft cloth and use it in 15-minute intervals.
Keep Their Mouth Clean – Gently
While your child should avoid brushing the extraction site directly for the first day, it’s still important to keep the mouth clean. After the first 24 hours, they can gently rinse with a warm saltwater solution (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) to help reduce bacteria and promote healing. Encourage them to brush and floss other areas of their mouth carefully, being extra gentle near the extraction spot.
Encourage Rest and Monitor Healing
The body heals best when it has time to rest. Encourage your child to take it easy for at least a day or two – no rough play, sports, or vigorous activity. Keep an eye on the extraction site for signs of infection like prolonged bleeding, pus, increased swelling, or fever. If anything seems off, contact your dentist right away.
With a little patience and care, your child will be back to normal in no time. These simple steps can help reduce discomfort, prevent complications, and ensure that your child’s smile continues to grow healthy and strong.
About the Author
Dr. Natalie Gardner is a graduate of the University of Maryland, Baltimore, School of Dentistry. Upon completing a two-year residency, she received her certificate as a Pediatric Dental Specialist. She achieved board certification as a Pediatric Dental Specialist in 2017 and remains an active Diplomate with the American Board of Pediatric Dentists. Dr. Gardner is also a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, and the Pennsylvania Dental Association. If your little one needs a tooth extracted, Dr. Gardner is especially equipped to provide them with the best care tailored to young patients. Schedule your appointment today online or call us at (267) 481-7707.