Little Smiles: Post-Operative Instructions (Post-Ops)
Please scroll down to find the post-op instructions for the treatment your child received.
Tooth Extractions
Bite on a gauze pad for 30 to 45 minutes after your appointment.
After an extraction it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process.
After the blood clot forms it’s important to protect it, especially for the next 24 hours.
Avoid sucking through a straw and brushing the teeth next to the extraction site. These activities could dislodge the clot and slow down the healing.
It is normal to feel some discomfort and have some swelling.
Swelling and pain may be reduced by applying cold compresses to the face. Swelling usually starts to go down after 48 hours. Use pain medication as directed.
Drink plenty of fluids and eat only soft, nutritious foods.
Don’t consume carbonated beverages and avoid hot or spicy foods.
Gargle twice a day beginning the day after the extraction.
Mix a 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gently swish. Also rinse genty after meals as it helps keep food out of the extraction site.
It’s very important to resume the normal dental routine after 24 hours.
This should include brushing the teeth and tongue, and flossing. This speeds healing and helps keep the breath and mouth feeling fresh.
It is normal for the site to ooze.
Consider placing an old towel over the child’s pillow.
Space Maintainers & Stainless Steel Crowns
Minor sensitivity is expected after the placement of a space maintainer or stainless steel crown. Over-the-counter pain medication (Motrin or Tylenol) can be given for 24-48 hours.
Diet: Eating sticky food may pull off the space maintainer or stainless steel crown. Avoid sticky, chewy, and gummy foods and candies, such as gum or taffy.
Oral Hygiene: Continue normal brusing and flossing, even around the space maintainer or stainless steel crown. Your child’s crown/space maintainer should remain in place until the adult tooth starts to come in, or is recommended by the doctor.
If your child’s space maintainer/stainless steel crown comes loose or comes out, please call our office immediately. If your child’s appliance comes out, please bring it to your child’s appointment. Do not try to place the space maintainer/stainless steel crown back into place.
Regarding Space Maintainers
As a courtesy, space maintainers are re-cemented or replaced once free of charge. At the second occurrence, we may charge $65 to re-cement or $100 to replace your child’s space maintainer.