For healthy development, look to your child’s teeth.
Healthy baby teeth are a critical component to your child’s overall health. And oral health issues like tooth decay can lead to problems with speech, playtime, eating, and even learning, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
For some children, protecting their teeth and oral health may require surgery. This can be a stressful process for both children and parents.
If your child requires oral surgery, here’s what to prepare before your dental appointment.
1. Visit the Oral Surgeon
Often, oral surgery is not done by your child’s regular dentist. Instead, the procedure is performed in a separate office by an oral surgeon your dentist refers you to.
In most cases, it’s best to visit the oral surgeon before the surgery day to get to know them and their practice. Be sure that you and your child feel comfortable in their care, and don’t hesitate to ask any questions you may have.
2. Get Your Finances in Order
Any type of surgery can be expensive, including your child’s oral surgery.
Make sure that your insurance has been contacted and you thoroughly understand your coverage. Also inquire at the dental surgeon’s office about any payment plans they may offer.
You should understand all costs associated with the surgery, as well as any extra charges that may pop up (such as if the procedure requires additional treatment).
3. Stock Up on Soft Foods
Long before your child’s dental appointment, take a trip to the store for some special grocery shopping.
Your child won’t be able to eat hard, crunchy, or chewy foods after their surgery. Plan ahead by stocking up on soft foods that require no chewing. Soups, apple sauce, and smoothies may be great choices for your child.
Just be sure to keep foods appropriate to your child’s age. Babies can often get by with pureed baby food, but older children may prefer snacks like yogurt and pudding.
Also make sure to have drinks like juices and milk on hand.
4. Prepare for Post-Op Care
Aside from preparing the right foods, there may be additional steps required after your child’s operation. It’s best to prepare now to avoid surprises later.
For example, you should prepare:
- child-safe pain medicine (medicine may be given by the doctor, so check in advance to be sure)
- a quiet, restful place for your child
- towels or linens, especially if there may be bleeding
- ice packs in case of swelling
To plan ahead for after your child’s oral surgery is finished, visit childrensdentistryco.com for more information.
5. Talk to Your Child
Surgery is scary for anyone, especially children. Dental sedation and pain can make the process extremely uncomfortable for little ones.
Prepare your child for what’s to come by explaining the process in clear, simple language. You don’t have to sugarcoat, but it’s best to describe the surgery process calmly to avoid unnecessary panic.
Remind them that you’ll be there with them throughout and that they’ll feel good as new in just a few days.
Get Ready for Your Child’s Surgical Dental Appointment
If your child needs oral surgery, get a head start on preparing for the dental appointment. Follow these five tips to keep the process as pain free as possible.
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