After Treatment Care for Kids in Middletown
Helping your little one heal quickly and comfortably!
Call: (732) 852-9200
Care continues after you leave
Your child’s visit doesn’t end when you walk out our door! Proper care at home is the key to a smooth and happy recovery. At Acorn Pediatric Dental, we want to make sure you have all the information you need to help your little one feel better fast. Dr. Tesoriero and our team have put together these simple instructions to guide you.
If you ever have a question or concern, please don’t hesitate to call our Middletown team at (732) 852-9200. We’re always here to help!
General tips for after any dental procedure
Most dental treatments require a little extra TLC for the rest of the day. Here are some general guidelines for a comfortable recovery:
- Watch for numbness: If your child had local anesthetic, their lips, cheeks, and tongue will be numb for a few hours. Remind them not to bite, scratch, or chew on the numb area to avoid accidental sores.
- Stick to soft foods: A soft diet is best until the numbness wears off. Think yogurt, smoothies (no straws!), applesauce, mashed potatoes, and pasta.
- Manage soreness: It’s normal to have some mild discomfort. You can give your child over-the-counter pain relievers as directed for their age and weight.
- Keep brushing gently: Encourage your child to continue their brushing and flossing routine, but be extra gentle around the treated area for a day or two.
Specific instructions for your child’s treatment
Depending on the procedure, your child may need some specific care. Find their treatment below for easy-to-follow tips.
Fillings & Crowns
The main thing is to be careful while the area is numb. A soft diet is best for the first few hours. Avoid very sticky or hard foods for 24 hours to let the filling or crown settle completely.
Extractions
Keep firm pressure on the gauze we provided for 20-30 minutes. Don’t let your child spit, swish vigorously, or drink from a straw for 24 hours, as this can dislodge the healing clot.
Frenectomy
Stretching exercises are the most important part of healing! We will show you exactly what to do. Performing these stretches as directed is crucial to prevent the tissue from reattaching.
Space Maintainers
It’s normal for these appliances to feel a little strange at first. Stick to soft foods for a day or two. Avoid sticky, chewy, and hard foods (like gum, caramel, and hard candy) to prevent damage.
A caring partner in your child’s recovery
At Acorn Pediatric Dental, we are dedicated to your child’s health and comfort before, during, and long after their appointment. We want you to feel confident and supported as you care for their smile at home.
Our Middletown office is always just a phone call away if you need us. Have questions or concerns about your child’s healing? Call us at (732) 852-9200 — we’re happy to help!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will my child's mouth be numb?
Numbness from local anesthetic typically lasts for 2-4 hours. Supervise your child closely during this time to make sure they don’t bite their lip, cheek, or tongue.
Is it normal for my child to be a little sore?
Yes, some mild tenderness around the treated area is completely normal. This can usually be managed with pediatric over-the-counter pain relievers. If pain is severe or gets worse, please call us.
When should I be concerned and call the office?
Please call us if your child experiences heavy or uncontrolled bleeding, pain that doesn’t get better with medicine, swelling that increases after 48 hours, or a fever.
What can my child eat after their appointment?
Soft, cool foods are best. Good choices include yogurt, applesauce, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and lukewarm soup. Avoid anything hot, crunchy, or sticky for the first day.
What should I do if a crown or space maintainer comes loose?
Don’t panic! If you can, save the appliance in a small bag or container. Call our office right away, and we will schedule a time to see your child and fix it.
Have questions about dental care for infants? Call us today at (732) 852-9200.
Schedule Today!
Our Office
Phone
Call: (732) 852-9200
Hours
Monday: 9am-5pm
Tuesday: 9am-6pm
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 12pm-7pm
Friday: 9am-5pm
Saturday: 8am-1pm (every other week)
Sunday: Closed
