Care of the Mouth after Extractions

• Do not scratch , chew, suck, or rub the lips, tongue, or cheek while they feel numb or asleep.  The child should be watched closely so he/she does not injure his/her lip, tongue, or cheek before the anesthesia wears off. 

• Do not rinse the mouth for several hours.

• Do not spit excessively.

• Do not drink a carbonated beverage (Coke, Sprite, etc.) for the remainder of the day.

• Do not drink through a straw.

• Keep fingers and tongue away from the extraction area.

• Bleeding - Some bleeding is to be expected.  If unusual or sustained bleeding occurs, place cotton gauze firmly over the extraction area and bite down or hold in place for fifteen minutes.  This can also be accomplished with a tea bag.  Repeat if necessary.

• Maintain a soft diet for a day or two, or until the child feels comfortable eating normally again.

• Avoid strenuous exercise or physical activity for several hours after the extraction.

• Pain - For discomfort use Children's Tylenol, Advil, or Motrin as directed for the age of the child.  If a medicine was prescribed, then follow the directions on the bottle.