Before the Procedure – Preparing for Success

Preparation is key in helping your child feel at ease before their dental procedure. We want them to feel comfortable and confident and want you, as their caregiver, to feel prepared and informed. Here are some guidelines for pre-operative care:

Talk to Your Child About the Procedure

It’s normal for children to feel a little nervous about dental visits, especially when there’s a procedure involved. Use simple, reassuring language to explain what will happen. Depending on their age, you might tell them that the dentist will “fix their tooth to make it strong and healthy again.”

Avoid using words like “pain” or “hurt”; instead, focus on the positive aspects, like how the tooth will feel better afterward. We’re happy to explain the procedure in a kid-friendly way during your visit if you’d prefer!

Follow Any Dietary Guidelines

Depending on the type of procedure, your child might need to avoid eating or drinking for a certain period before the appointment. For example, if your child is receiving sedation or anesthesia, they’ll likely need an empty stomach. Don’t worry – we’ll provide specific instructions tailored to their treatment. Be sure to follow them closely to avoid any unnecessary delays or complications during the procedure.

Dress Comfortably

Have your child wear loose, comfortable clothing on the day of the procedure. This will help them relax and allow the dental team to complete their treatment safely. Bringing a favorite stuffed animal or blanket can also provide extra comfort for younger children.

Ask Questions

We’re here to help! If you have any questions about how to prepare or about the procedure itself, don’t hesitate to let us know. Your peace of mind is just as important as your child’s comfort.

During the Appointment – What to Expect

Our team takes pride in providing every patient with a calm, welcoming environment. On the day of the appointment, we’ll review all pre-op instructions with you again to ensure everything is on track.

If your child is undergoing sedation or anesthesia, you can rest assured that our team is trained and experienced in creating a safe and comfortable experience. We’ll monitor your child every step of the way. From the moment you arrive to the time you leave, our goal is to make this process as stress-free as possible for you and your child.

After the Procedure – Post-Operative Care Done Right

Once the procedure is complete, it’s important to follow the post-care instructions provided by our team to ensure a smooth recovery. Recovery plays a crucial role in the success of the treatment, so here’s what to focus on:

Monitor for Side Effects

After anesthesia or sedation, your child may feel a little groggy or sleepy. This is completely normal and usually wears off within a few hours. It’s best to keep them resting comfortably until they’re fully awake and alert.

For localized treatments, like fillings or extractions, numbness in the treated area may persist for a few hours. Keep an eye on your child to prevent them from biting their lips or cheeks while their mouth is numb.

Pain Relief and Comfort

Mild discomfort is common after certain procedures, like extractions or deep cleanings, but it’s temporary. Over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can be used as directed to manage discomfort. Our team will provide you with specific recommendations for your child’s needs.

If instructed, using an ice pack on the outside of your child’s cheek can also help reduce swelling. If pain persists or seems severe, don’t hesitate to call us—we’re here to help!

Follow Dietary Recommendations

After the procedure, we often advise a soft diet, especially if your child’s gums or teeth are tender. Applesauce, mashed potatoes, yogurt, and scrambled eggs are all excellent options. Please encourage your child to avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods until they fully recover.

It’s also important to keep them hydrated with plenty of water, which aids healing and decreases discomfort.

Oral Hygiene After the Procedure

Good oral hygiene remains essential during the recovery process, though you may need to modify your child’s brushing and flossing routine temporarily. We’ll provide specific guidance based on their treatment, such as avoiding the treated area when brushing or using a medicated rinse if necessary.

Maintaining cleanliness in their mouth is essential for preventing infections and promoting a quick recovery. Don’t worry – we’ll break down everything you need to know before you leave our office.

Know When to Call Us

While complications are rare, it’s important to be aware of warning signs that require immediate attention. If your child experiences excessive swelling, bleeding, or pain that doesn’t improve, give us a call right away. Our team is always here to answer your questions and provide support.

Pre- and Post-Operative Dental Care in Hermiston

If you have questions about pre- and post-operative dental care in Hermiston or need to schedule your child’s next appointment, please get in touch with us today. Dr. Shane Schmidt and his team look forward to helping your child achieve a healthy, beautiful smile!

Advanced Pediatric Dentistry of Hermiston is your one-stop shop for quality dental care. Services range from Pediatric Dental Care to Preventative Dentistry to Tongue Tie treatment!