Pediatric Tooth Extraction Care Instructions

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At Masters Dentistry, we want your child’s healing to be as comfortable and smooth as possible. The following guidelines will help support proper healing after your child’s extraction.
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The First 24 Hours
Encourage quiet activity and avoid running or rough play for the remainder of the day.
Avoid hot foods and drinks.
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Bleeding Control
Light bleeding or oozing is normal.
Have your child bite gently on gauze for 20–30 minutes.
If bleeding continues, replace the gauze and repeat.
If bleeding does not improve, please contact our office.
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Swelling and Discomfort
Mild swelling is normal.
Apply a cold compress to the outside of the cheek for 15–20 minutes on and off as tolerated.
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Pain Management
Children’s acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be given as directed, if appropriate.
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Oral Hygiene
Continue brushing teeth, avoiding the extraction area for the first 24 hours. After 24 hours, gentle rinsing with water may begin. Resume normal brushing carefully around the area after a few days.
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Diet
Offer soft foods such as yogurt, applesauce, eggs, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
Avoid crunchy, sticky, or spicy foods.
Encourage fluids.
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What to Expect
Mild soreness is expected and should improve over the next few days.
A small amount of bleeding or pink saliva may be seen the first day.
Healing is typically quick in children.
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When to Call the Office
Bleeding that does not improve. Increasing pain after the first few days. Swelling that worsens instead of improving.
Fever or signs of infection.
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If you need to reach us after hours, please call our office and follow the prompts to be connected to our emergency line.
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If you have any concerns, contact Masters Dentistry at (586) 463-8635