HOW TO CARE FOR A CHEWED LIP, CHEEK OR TONGUE

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One of the most common complications of numbing for dental procedures for children is lip biting. Some kids also chew on their tongues or cheeks. It’s a really foreign feeling when the tissues “wake up” from anesthesia and some kids will confuse this feeling with itchiness. At Smiles for Kids Pediatric Dentistry, we offer OraVerse, which helps reduce the time the patient is numb significantly.  However, if you child does bite himself, here’s what to do!

cheek bite.jpg

 

Remember that the cheek or tongue will be swollen, red/white, hot, and painful.  Sometimes parents mistake the chewed up area for infection. It is injured tissue that will heal without antibiotics.

 

Follow these steps if you notice a bite:

 

  • Apply ice packs for first 3 days. Ice packs should be placed for 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off, for 1 hour, 3 times a day.
  • Rinse with salt water two times a day for 3 days.
  • Give your child Tylenol or Motrin for pain.
  • Apply topical numbing ointments available over-the-counter at any pharmacy.

 

If the wound does not heal within a week, call us at 713-461-1509.

 

Dr. Jadav

Smiles for Kids Pediatric Dentistry