Numbness: The mouth will be numb approximately two to four hours. Watch to see that your child does not bite, scratch, or injure the cheek, lips, or tongue during this time.

Bleeding: Bleeding was controlled before we discharged your child, but some occasional oozing (pink or blood-tinged saliva) may occur. Hold gauze with firm pressure against the extraction site until oozing has stopped. Holding firm pressure for 4 minutes should stop the bleeding. You may need to change the gauze or repeat this step. If bleeding continues for more than two hours, contact us.

Surgical Site Care: Today, do not disturb the surgical site. Do not stretch the lips or cheeks to look at the area. Do not rinse vigorously, use mouthwash or probe the area with fingers or other objects. Beginning tomorrow, you may rinse with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt with one cup of water) after eating. If the child is unable to rinse, you can clean the area with salt water on a 2×2 gauze.

Daily Activities: Today, avoid physical exercise and exertion as this can increase bleeding. Return to normal activities as tolerated tomorrow.

Diet: After all bleeding has stopped, the patient may drink cool non-carbonated liquids but should NOT use a straw. Encourage fluids to help avoid dehydration. Cold soft foods (e.g., ice cream, jello, pudding, yogurt) are ideal for the first day. By the second day, consistency of foods can progress as tolerated. Until healing is more established (approx. 5 days), avoid foods such as nuts, seeds, popcorn, and tortilla chips that may get lodged in the surgical area.