How to Care for a Child After Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth extractions are needed when a child’s teeth are impacted, decayed, or keep braces from being installed. Before and during the surgery, the dentist makes sure your teen is comfortable. The information below should assist you in providing care at home while your child’s mouth heals.

5 WISDOM TEETH EXTRACTION CARE TIPS FOR YOUR CHILD

1. APPLY PRESSURE WITH GAUZE PAD

To help reduce the bleeding, have your child bite down gently on the gauze pad the dentist places over the extraction area. Every 45 to 60 minutes, apply pressure constantly. Use a new pad if necessary or apply a moist tea bag, which contains tannic acid, a substance that causes blood vessels to contract and slows bleeding.

2. USE ICE PACKS

Elevate your child’s head and apply an ice pack outside on the face over the wisdom teeth extraction area. These steps help minimize swelling and encourage blood clotting, a vital part of the healing process.

3. PROVIDE LOTS OF WATER

Drinking six glasses or more of water gives the body vital fluids it needs for healing. Do not give your child a straw, because sucking will pull the clot loose. The clot must stay anchored to protect the wound.

4. KEEP THEM RELAXED

Your child should do calming activities, such as sitting quietly and reading, watching a movie, or listening to music. Hold off on sports activities until a clot and a scab develop to cover the surgical location.

5. SERVE SOFT FOODS

To help your child stay strong and heal quickly, serve soft, high-protein, high-calorie foods for each meal. Soft-scrambled eggs, smooth applesauce, soups, mashed bananas, and Greek yogurt are good choices. Rinse the mouth with saltwater after every meal, at least five times daily.If your child needs wisdom teeth extractions, turn to Avon Dental Care in Avon, OH. This trusted dental office cares for patients throughout Lorain County, providing skilled and compassionate general dentistry. Children and adults receive services, including tooth extractions, dental implants, and TMJ treatments in a friendly and professional environment. To learn more about what these dentists can do for you, visit them online or call 440-937-2273.