Sleep dentistry is an excellent solution for children who need complex or lengthy dental procedures. Our team uses either IV sedation delivered intravenously at one of our dental clinics or general anaesthetic (GA) delivered with our team at a local hospital.
Whichever type of dental sedation in Brisbane you choose, you'll want to plan for your child's aftercare. Here's what you should know.
#1 Allow Them to Have Ample Rest Time After Their Procedure
Your child will need to rest and be monitored for at least 24 hours after their dental procedure, so be sure someone is on hand to stay with them. It is normal for them to feel sleepy and numb straight after their procedure with dental sedation. You'll know that the anaesthetic and medications have worn off once they're no longer numb or groggy.
#2 Have Them Stick to Soft Foods
It's a good idea to have soft foods ready for them and stick to a softer diet for the first few days after surgery. Serve cold or room temperature foods, as hot foods could irritate their extraction site. Here are some ideas for soft foods that are comfortable to eat after surgery:
- Applesauce
- Oatmeal
- Scrambled eggs
- Yogurt
- Smoothies
- Mashed potatoes
Be sure they don't use a straw for at least 72 hours after surgery if they've had tooth extractions. Sucking through a straw could loosen blood clots that protect the extraction site.
Manage Their Discomfort
Parents can give children over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen to help manage pain and discomfort after dental procedures. Follow the recommended instructions for dispensing medicines according to your child's age.
Contact Sleep Dentistry Brisbane
Your team at Sleep Dentistry Brisbane is here to support you and your child throughout their recovery. We'll provide you with aftercare instructions specific to your child's dental procedures, and you can always contact us with any questions or concerns.