How to Take Care of a Baby Tooth Extraction

There are a variety of factors that can lead to a child needing a baby tooth extracted by the dentist, such as decay, breakage or the tooth failing to loosen on its own. While there are very few complications associated with a baby tooth extraction, it is very important that proper care is taken during the healing process to avoid infection. Taking care of the extraction site after a baby tooth has been removed is very simple to do and can prevent long term complications from arising.

Things You'll Need

• Gauze
• Salt
• Water
• Children's Tylenol or other over-the-counter pain reliever
• Ice pack

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Instructions

• 1

  Wedge a piece of gauze into the extraction site immediately after the extraction. Have the child keep the gauze in their mouth until a clot forms around the extraction site and the bleeding subsides. If bleeding persists at any time, pack a small piece of gauze in their mouth to apply pressure on the wound.

• 2

  Avoid serving any hard foods for at least the first 24 hours after the tooth has been extracted. Pudding, soup and ice cream are soft foods that can be eaten without agitating the extraction site.

• 3

  Have your child gargle a mixture of salt water after every meal once your dentist says it's safe to do so. This will cleanse bacteria from the mouth and help prevent infection. Do not use conventional mouth wash as many contain alcohol which will cause extreme stinging and discomfort around the extraction site.

• 4

  Apply an ice pack to your child's face over the extraction site if you notice any swelling. Have your child keep her head elevated. This should reduce the swelling as well as any pain or discomfort.

• 5

  Give your child a normal dose of children's Tylenol or ibuprofen if they are feeling extreme discomfort and pain. Avoid over-the-counter pain relievers that contain a blood thinner.