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Post General Anaesthesia Care
Your child received dental treatment under general anaesthesia. Here are some tips to help you ensure a smooth recovery process.
Feel free to contact us during clinic hours if you have any questions. Tel: 6988 9068 or Whatsapp 8800 6991
Please seek help at a Hospital, Accident and Emergency ( A and E ) department for after hours emergencies.
Numbness
The mouth and tongue may be numb for approximately 2 hours after the procedure. Watch to see that your child does not bite, scratch or injure the cheek, lips or tongue during this time.
Bleeding
Bleeding was controlled before we discharged your child, but some occasional oozing (blood-tinged saliva) may occur. Hold gauze with firm pressure against the surgical site until oozing has stopped. You may need to change the gauze or repeat this step. If bleeding continues for more than 2 hours, please contact us.
Surgical site care
Today, do not disturb the surgical/ extraction site. You can still brush the remaining teeth with a soft toothbrush. Keeping the mouth clean is essential.
Sutures ( stitches )
Sutures were placed to help control bleeding and promote healing. These sutures will dissolve and do not need to be removed.
Daily activities
Today, avoid physical exercise and exertion.
Diet
Cold soft foods ( e.g. ice cream, pudding, yoghurt ) or porridge and noodles are ideal on the first day. By the second day, consistency of the food can progress as tolerated
Pain
Some discomfort is expected. You may give your child the pain killer prescribed before the numbness wears off.
Fever
A slight fever ( temperature to 38oC ) is not uncommon the first 48 hours after surgery. Medication for pain ( paracetamol or ibuprofen ) can be used for fever as well. Dehydration may cause a slight fever; clear fluids may help to correct this condition. If a high fever develops or the fever persists, contact us.
Drowsiness
Once home, your child will still be drowsy and must remain under adult supervision until fully recovered from the effects of general anaesthesia. No activities such as cycling, swimming, going to playground or any activity where balance is important.
Nausea and Vomiting
These are occasional side effects of general anesthesia. Once your child is alert, you may give sips of clear liquids to reduce nausea and dehydration. Small drinks/sips taken repeatedly are preferable to large amounts. First meal should be light and easily digestible. Do not give fatty or spicy foods. If vomiting persists for 20-40 minutes, please contact us.
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