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Learn MoreYou can take steps at home to reduce your child’s chance of problems after oral surgery. These home care tips can help.
Bleeding is one of the most common side effects after oral surgery. Take these steps to help control any bleeding your child might have:
If the bleeding doesn’t stop on its own or becomes more serious, contact your child’s care team.
During the first 24 hours after surgery, your child should not:
This allows the surgery site to form a clot. Clots allow the site to heal. Spitting, rinsing, or using a straw can dislodge a clot.
Do not allow your child to rinse their mouth with anything for the first 24 hours after surgery.
Start warm saltwater rinses after the first day.
Your child should keep eating while their mouth heals.
At first, your child may need liquids and soft foods only. While your child’s mouth is sore, good options include:
The doctor may prescribe a pain medicine after surgery. These drugs can sometimes cause nausea if taken on an empty stomach.
To help prevent an upset stomach, have your child take pain medicines with food.
Some pain medicines can cause a person to feel dizzy or drowsy.
Your child’s face may swell after oral surgery. This is another common side effect.
The swelling may not be the same on each side.
You might be able to reduce the swelling and bruising:
It is also normal for the jaw to feel stiff. This should get better as the swelling subsides.
If the doctor prescribes an antibiotic, your child should take it as directed.
Do not stop giving your child antibiotics when they start feeling better. Your child should take the antibiotic until it is all gone.
If you have questions about drug interactions or side effects, talk to your child’s care team.
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Reviewed: February 2022