Tooth Extraction Recovery for Children

Typically, children heal and recover faster than adults. But how long is the recovery after a child’s simple tooth extractions? Please read our article to learn about the recovery process and after-extraction care tips.

Typically, children recover quickly after a tooth extraction. In the majority of cases, your kid will feel better and be able to return to school within 2 to 3 days after the extraction. Simple extractions of a baby tooth might heal within a day or two. However, complete healing of the socket can take up to a week. In cases of wisdom tooth extractions in teenagers, healing may take longer.

Symptoms You Can Expect in Your Child After Tooth Extraction

Below, we list the symptoms that are normal in children after a tooth extraction and not a cause for concern:

Numbness from the local anesthetic used during the extraction can remain for a couple of hours after the procedure.
Slight bleeding may occur within the first hour after extraction, but it should resolve as the blood clot forms in the socket.
Some children might feel drowsy or confused for a couple of hours after the procedure, especially if sedation is used.
A dull ache or tenderness in the procedure area can occur once the anesthetic wears off and may persist for a couple of days, gradually subsiding.
Slight facial swelling is normal and should subside within 1 to 3 days.

When to Call a Dentist

Signs that you need to contact your dentist include:

Severe pain that worsens 24 hours after the extraction
Bleeding that does not stop after several hours after the extraction
Fever over 101°F
Persistent unpleasant taste in the mouth or bad breath
Difficulty breathing or swallowing

After Child’s Tooth Extraction Care Tips

Here are several essential tips we recommend following for a swift recovery after a child’s tooth extraction:

While the mouth and lips are still numb from the anesthetic used during the procedure, make sure your child does not bite themselves and avoid feeding.
If your child experiences swelling, apply a cold compress to the outside of their cheek and hold it for 15 minutes, with 30-minute breaks between applications. If you use an icepack, wrap it in a clean hand towel for comfort.
Ensure that your child gets plenty of rest and avoid running or any other strenuous activities to prevent bleeding.
If your child experiences pain, use children’s pain medication as directed by your doctor.
Switch to a liquid and soft diet for the first couple of days after the extraction to avoid straining the jawbone and irritating the gum tissue at the procedure site. Also, ensure that your child gets plenty of water.
Never give your child a straw or a sippy cup to drink from. The suction created in the mouth by a straw can dislodge the blood clot, leading to a painful condition called dry socket. Also, prevent your child from spitting and do not give them carbonated drinks.
Prevent your child from touching the extraction site with their tongue or fingers.
Ensure good oral hygiene to prevent infections. Do not brush or rinse the procedure site for the first 24 hours, and be very gentle when cleaning around the area afterward.

Make an Appointment at Absolute Family Dentistry

If your child needs a tooth extraction, do not hesitate to make an appointment with a family dentist at Absolute Family Dentistry today. Pediatric specialists at our clinic strive to create a friendly, comfortable atmosphere that offers stress-free procedures for every patient. We are looking forward to your visit.