Post Op Instructions

Post op instructions / complications

After any procedure that involves numbing, it’s important to monitor your child to avoid self-injury from biting or scratching. Signs to watch out for are sucking of the lip, chewing, pinching, or obsessive touching of the area. Prevention is the best but if your child gets a sore like the one as pictured, ice the area and provide over the counter pain medication as needed. Expect at least a week for the area to heal.

What to Do After Extractions


Bite with firm pressure on the gauze for at least 30-45 minutes after the procedure to stop the bleeding.  A clot will form but needs time to mature so do not change the gauze and disturb the clot prematurely.  Avoid hot temperature foods, carbonated beverages, and physical activity as they may cause bleeding to restart.  Soft foods for the rest of the day and use over the counter pain medication for the next 24 hours.

What to Do After Crowns


The edges of the crown sit slightly under the gum and may be sore for the next 24 hrs.  Use over the counter pain medication to manage discomfort until the next day after the appointment.  Soft foods for the rest of the day.

What to Do After Hospital Surgery


  • Cold, soft, liquid diet at first.  Resume as tolerated.
  • If they are numb, monitor closely to avoid self-injury.
  • Avoid stairs and activities involving balance.
  • Over the counter pain meds (Tylenol / Motrin) for next 2-3 days if needed.
  • Brush teeth starting the day after surgery. Two times per day with adult help.

What to Do After After Lip or Tongue Tie Release


  • Begin stretches the next morning after the procedure.  Look for the white diamond.   If not done, the tissues will re-attach and we will have 100% chance of failure.  A little bleeding after stretching is normal.
  • Baby will be sore, expect baby to be fussy (may refuse to feed for 12-24hrs).
  • Use OTC pain meds.  Tylenol / Acetaminophen preferred.  Dose base on weight, give every 6-8 hrs.
  • OR Breast milk ice chips – place tiny pieces under tongue, lip, or cheek and let melt slowly.
  • Baby may have trouble with latch while it is relearning how to suckle.
  • Lots of skin to skin and/or warm bath with your baby can help soothe and console baby shortly after procedure.
  • Success of procedure is going to depend whether stretches are done as instructed
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