The worst is over—your family weathered a dental emergency, and your child is on the other side. Now, you need to monitor their recovery. Kirkland Kids Dentistry offers some tips for helping your little one through this process. This advice from our emergency pediatric dentist can help your family feel ready to tackle post-care healing.
Follow Post-Emergency Care Instructions
The first and most important step is to carefully follow the aftercare instructions provided by our emergency pediatric dentist. These recommendations are tailored to your child’s specific needs and designed to promote healing, prevent complications, and ensure the best possible outcome.
If you have any questions or the instructions are unclear, don’t hesitate to contact us for clarification—we’re here to support you.
Manage Pain or Discomfort at Home
It’s totally normal for your child to experience some discomfort after their dental procedure. After all, they just went through an urgent dental situation! Here are ways to help them feel more comfortable:
- Use Recommended Pain Relief: We may advise over-the-counter pain relievers. Follow dosage instructions carefully based on your child’s age and weight.
- Apply a Cold Compress: If there’s swelling or tenderness, apply a cold compress to the outside of the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time to provide soothing relief.
- Encourage Rest: Rest is essential for healing. To promote recovery, avoid activities that could lead to further injury.
- Make a Safe Space: Set up an area for them to recover with their favorite toy or blanket. Pick out movies to watch, select healthy treats, and let them feel cared for.
Be sure to monitor your child closely. If the pain worsens or doesn’t improve within a few days, contact our emergency pediatric dentist in Kirkland, WA.
Gentle Oral Hygiene Practices
Maintaining oral hygiene after a dental emergency is crucial, but it can be tough with children. Make sure your child takes care of their mouth but is gentle to avoid aggravating any sensitive areas.
- Brush with Care: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Avoid brushing near the treated area if it feels tender.
- Rinse with Salt Water: If recommended, a rinse can keep the mouth clean and reduce the risk of infection. Use 1/2 teaspoon of salt dissolved in 8 ounces of warm water.
- Floss Gently: Flossing should continue as usual unless we tell you otherwise, but avoid areas that might still be sensitive.
Healing Through Diet: What to Eat and Avoid
What your kiddo eats turns into fuel, and they need fuel to heal. Focus on easy-to-eat, nutritious foods that won’t cause discomfort or harm the treated area.
Foods for Healing:
- Soft Foods: We love mashed potatoes, yogurt, applesauce, oatmeal, and smoothies.
- Soups and Broths: Eat at room temperature for nourishment and hydration.
- Protein-Packed Options: Try scrambled eggs or soft tofu to support healing.
Foods to Avoid:
- Crunchy or Hard Foods: This includes chips, pretzels, or popcorn.
- Chewy or Sticky Treats: Steer clear of gum, caramel, or taffy.
- Extremely Hot or Cold Items: These could irritate sensitive areas.
- Sugary or Acidic Drinks and Snacks: They might slow healing or risk cavities.
Keeping your child hydrated with water throughout the day will also support their overall healing process.
Watch for Signs of Complications
While most dental emergencies resolve smoothly, it’s important to remain vigilant. Look out for the following signs, which may require follow-up care with our emergency pediatric dentist:
- Persistent or Worsening Pain
- Swelling That Doesn’t Subside
- Bleeding That Doesn’t Stop
- Visible Signs of Infection (e.g., Redness, Pus, or Fever)
- Teeth Alignment Changes
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact Kirkland Kids Dentistry right away—we can guide you on the next steps to ensure your child’s well-being.
Don’t Skip the Follow-Up Appointment
You know when a doctor prescribes an antibiotic, they advise you to keep taking it to the end, even if you feel better? Dentistry has an equivalent—even if your little one appears to be healing well, attending their follow-up appointment is essential. It’s not only part of treating them after an emergency, but it’s also an aspect of preventative care. We use this time to:
- Assess: We check on their healing progress.
- Monitor: Our dentist can get an idea of the long-term health of the treated area.
- Adjust: We can make changes to any ongoing care plan if needed.
Get Expert Tips to Ease Emergency Recovery
If you’re still unsure about any part of the recovery process or have concerns about your child’s progress, don’t hesitate to reach out to Kirkland Kids Dentistry. Our experienced pediatric emergency dentist is here to offer guidance and ensure your child’s dental health is supported every step of the way. We’ll work to get your child back to smiling in no time.