Normal Sensations
– A mild sense of ‘newness’ or discomfort in the treated area for up to 24 hours – though this is rare in children.
– Mild soreness at the injection site and around the gum (especially if a rubber dam was used).
– Numbness from local anesthesia – unfamiliar and sometimes uncomfortable for children, lasting a few hours.
– Gum redness or swelling near the treated tooth may last up to 10–14 days.
Call Us If Your Child:
– Feels rough spots or sharp/overhanging edges on the filling.
– Has trouble closing their mouth completely or bites the filling when moving the jaw.
– Feels pain when biting down.
– Has sensitivity to cold, hot, sweet – or if the tooth aches on its own.
Local Anesthesia – What’s Important
– Children respond differently to numbness. Some barely notice it, others may find it unpleasant.
– Before treatment, the dentist will explain calmly that the cheek will ‘go to sleep and wake up later at home.’
– Continue using the same calm explanation after the appointment.
What’s Normal After Anesthesia
– Numbness usually lasts 1–1.5 hours.
– Supervise your child to prevent them from biting their lip or cheek.
– You may offer warm tea, sugar-free candy, or ice cream (only if approved by your dentist).
– Most common complication is self-inflicted soft tissue injury – usually a bitten lower lip.
If the Lip or Cheek Was Bitten
– Swelling may increase quickly.
– A white layer may appear – this is a normal healing process (fibrin film).
– Do not panic – healing typically takes a few days.
– Contact your treatment coordinator if you’re worried.
To Speed Up Healing
– Avoid hard, rough, sour foods.
– No hot food or drinks.
– Avoid fresh juices for 3–5 days.
– If your child complains of pain, give Nurofen in the appropriate dose for their age.
After the Filling – Our Tips
– Don’t let your child bite nuts in shells, toys, pens, or hard objects.
– Avoid combining hot and cold foods (e.g., ice cream with tea).
– Attend regular check-ups and cleanings as per your dentist’s plan.
– Help your child maintain excellent oral hygiene:
• Brush twice a day – morning after breakfast, evening before bed.
• If your child is 7+ and brushes independently, occasionally supervise the process.
• Use plaque disclosing tools for young children.
• Clean between teeth daily with floss and/or an irrigator.
• Use remineralizing products if prescribed by your doctor.
