Having a child go through surgery – regardless of the type of procedure – isn’t something a parent could ever prepare for. Although pediatric dental surgery is often done in an outpatient setting, aftercare needs to be considered. If your little one recently underwent dental surgery, it pays to know what to expect and do as their parent at home. Even getting Invisalign braces placed may require some extra care and attention in the days that follow. At the best dentist to get Invisalign Wimbledon, you’ll learn the care details that go far beyond the procedure itself. Here, you’ll also learn the basic aftercare for a variety of pediatric dental surgeries.
Pain Management
After any surgical procedure, pain management is key in ensuring a successful recovery. Your kid’s dentist will likely prescribe a strong pain reliever to keep them comfortable while they heal. Make sure to follow the instructions that come with their medicine and never exceed the dosage, even if your child is still in pain. In some cases, over-the-counter medications may be recommended or allowed as well.
Just make sure your child is as comfortable as possible during their recovery, and everything will go smoothly.
Hygiene and Cleaning
Your primary dentist will also go over any special hygiene or cleaning techniques you should follow at home post-surgery. This usually includes brushing gently around the area with a soft toothbrush, using a mild saltwater rinse to keep the area clean, and avoiding irritating foods like chips or popcorn. You should also ask your dentist about how long you should wait until your child can resume their normal brushing routine.
Infection Control
After surgery, keeping the area clean and free of infection is important. This means avoiding contact with saliva and other germs as much as possible. If your child was prescribed antibiotics, ensure they take them on schedule and for the full duration suggested by their dentist. You should also provide your child with plenty of fluids to help flush out any bacteria that could be lingering in their system. In many cases, a special mouth rinse may also be recommended to help prevent infection.
Follow-up Visits
Depending on your child’s surgery, a follow-up visit may be necessary to ensure everything is healing correctly. This could include an exam or even X-rays to check for any potential issues that may have been overlooked. Your kid’s dentist will provide details about when these visits should occur, and if you ever have any questions or concerns in between visits, don’t hesitate to call their office.
Pediatric dental surgery can be scary for both parents and kids alike, but understanding what needs to be done at home during the recovery period can make the process much easier and avoid any risks of getting Invisalign braces or other dental procedures. Knowing what to expect post-surgery when it comes to pain management, hygiene, and infection control can ensure a successful recovery for your little one.