Post-Op Instructions
for Baby Tooth Extractions
Caring for your child after a baby tooth extraction is crucial for a smooth recovery. Follow these guidelines to help prevent discomfort and complications.
1. Managing Bleeding
- A gauze pad was placed over the extraction site—keep it in place for 30 minutes, having your child bite down gently.
- If bleeding continues, replace the gauze and repeat for another 30 minutes.
- If bleeding persists, a damp tea bag (black tea) can help promote clotting.
- Avoid excessive spitting, sucking, or rinsing for the first 24 hours to prevent disturbing the blood clot.
2. Pain & Swelling Control
- Mild soreness is normal. Give children’s acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin/Advil) as directed. Avoid aspirin.
- A cold compress (wrapped ice pack) applied to the cheek for 10 minutes on, 10 minutes off can help reduce swelling.
- Keep your child’s head slightly elevated while sleeping to minimize swelling.
3. Eating & Drinking
- Wait until numbness wears off (2–4 hours) before eating to prevent accidental lip, cheek, or tongue biting.
- Start with soft foods (yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, smoothies) for the first 24 hours.
- Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or sticky foods that can irritate the site.
- No straws, sippy cups, or carbonated drinks for 48 hours, as suction can dislodge the blood clot and lead to dry socket.
4. Oral Hygiene
- Do NOT brush or rinse the extraction area for the first 24 hours.
- The next day, gently rinse with warm salt water (½ teaspoon salt in a cup of warm water) after meals.
- Resume brushing the other teeth normally but be gentle near the extraction site.
5. Activity Restrictions
- Encourage your child to rest and avoid running, jumping, or playing sports for the rest of the day.
- Hydrate with water (no sugary or carbonated drinks).
- Discourage tongue or finger touching of the extraction site to avoid irritation or infection.
6. Watch for Signs of Complications
Contact the dentist if your child experiences:
✅ Persistent bleeding after 1 hour of pressure application
✅ Severe pain beyond 48 hours
✅ Fever or swelling that worsens
✅ Bad odor, pus, or a foul taste (could indicate infection)
Baby tooth extractions usually heal quickly (within a few days). If your child experiences prolonged discomfort, let the dentist know.
Ready for your child's appointment?
At Treehouse Pediatric Dentistry of Chantilly, we're committed to making dental care a fun and stress-free experience, one your child will enjoy again and again! From the moment the first tooth emerges, we’re committed to laying the foundation for a lifetime of healthy, radiant smiles. We invite you to schedule your child’s appointment to discover a new level of pediatric dental care!
