A Note Before You Read On
This page offers general aftercare guidance for parents after common children’s dental treatments. It is not individualized medical advice. Your child’s care is unique, and the specific instructions our team gives you at the appointment always take precedence. If anything seems off or you have a concern at any point, please call our office at 303-286-2679.
Aftercare by Procedure
Select a procedure for post-operative care instructions
Tooth Extractions
Follow these steps after your child’s tooth extraction to support a smooth recovery.
- Bite on gauze to control bleeding; change as needed
- Give pain medication only as directed
- Soft, cool foods for the first 24 hours
- Avoid brushing the extraction site for 24 hours
- Apply an ice pack for swelling (10 min on, 10 min off)
- Rest and limit physical activity for the first day
- Schedule a follow-up visit to monitor healing
Pulpotomy
After your child’s pulpotomy, follow these instructions to promote a healthy recovery.
- Administer prescribed pain medication as directed
- Soft, cool foods for the first 24 hours
- Resume brushing but avoid treated area for 24 hours
- Apply an ice pack for swelling (10 min on, 10 min off)
- Schedule a follow-up visit to monitor healing
Lip-Tie & Tongue-Tie (Frenectomy)
After your child’s lip-tie or tongue-tie procedure, follow these steps for comfort and optimal healing.
- Resume breastfeeding as soon as possible if applicable
- Give pain medication only as directed
- Perform recommended stretching exercises to prevent reattachment
- Avoid brushing the treated area for 24 hours
- Apply an ice pack for swelling (10 min on, 10 min off)
- Schedule a follow-up visit to monitor healing
After a Filling or Sedation Visit
After a filling, your child’s mouth may stay numb for a little while, so watch that they do not bite their cheek or lip until feeling returns. After a sedation visit, plan for a calm, restful day at home and keep an eye on your child while the effects wear off. Our team will give you exact instructions for your child’s visit, and we are only a phone call away if questions come up.
