If your child is scheduled for pediatric dental surgery, it is understandable that both of you may be uneasy or frightened. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare will help both of you feel less anxious and more comfortable. The more your child understands about the procedure, the less the imagination will run wild and create worry. Some things to consider prior to your child’s oral surgery include:
- The anesthesiologist will review your child’s medical history to determine what type of sedation and anesthesia will best suit their individual needs.
- The anesthesiologist may also order additional x-rays or laboratory tests to help tailor a plan for anesthesia for your child and the planned procedure.
- Your child will have questions about the procedure. It is best to give truthful answers so that your child is better prepared and won’t experience any unwelcome surprises when it’s time for the appointment.
- While you want to be honest with your child, providing too many minute details may make your child more anxious. The best suggestion is to give them a broad, general idea of what they will experience during their oral surgery appointment.
- After the procedure, it is not uncommon for a child to have some minor bleeding, nausea, discomfort in the mouth or jaw, or a slight rise in temperature. The child may also experience slight drowsiness and a temporary effect on sleeping and eating. These symptoms should not last more than 24 hours.
If you have additional questions regarding your child’s oral surgery procedure, talk to their oral surgeon for answers specific to the procedure and situation. With proper preparation, you can ensure a stress-free procedure and successful recovery from oral surgery for your child.
