Most dental work done to repair decayed teeth is accomplished using local anesthetic or "Novocain." Pediatric dentists are well trained to administer the injection painlessly. Without discomfort, most children will participate in the treatment very well, watching the procedures and having a positive experience. All dental procedures will be thoroughly explained to your child by the dentist ands assistant at the appropriate time in terms that the child can understand.

Helping us help your child

All our visits are well orchestrated to produce a positive outcome.
The following suggestions will help you when you discuss their restorative visit.
- Use only positive words when answering questions.
I.E. soft, easy, fun, play, tickly toothpaste, clean cookie from tooth, tooth wiggled out, etc.
- Avoid negative words.
I.E. pain, hurt, needle, shot, tooth pulled, etc.
With the proper environment and verbal skills it is amazing how well children respond.

After treatment is completed you can help us to continue the positive experience by praising your child and referring to the "fun" time they had. Please avoid negative comments such as:
- Did it hurt?
- That wasnąt so bad!
- You were so brave!
- Did you get a shot?
- Were you afraid?
These comments could persuade your child in thinking there was a reason to be afraid, even though they were cooperative, had a good time, and may make their future visits more difficult.

Post treatment

During your child's dental treatment, he or she is kept very busy and involved. Therefore, they will not notice the numbing sensation from the local anesthetic (Novocain), which is given to make treatment more comfortable. When treatment is completed, your child will notice the numbness. This feeling will remain for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Most children are not concerned by this "tickly" sensation. Others interpret this feeling as annoying.

Your child's tooth, lip, cheek, and sometimes their tongue are "asleep and tickly." We give your child a tooth pillow (piece of cotton), and explain to them that their tooth and lip are asleep and tickly, and to keep the pillow there until it wakes up. This prevents them from biting their lips, tongue, and cheeks. We urge you to reinforce this, and watch your child carefully. You may remove the pillow when the tickly feeling is gone.
As soon as the tickly feeling wears off, your child may eat. If there is any post treatment discomfort, you may give them a normal dose of Advil or Tylenol. Please follow the recommended dosage and directions on the label.

If you have any questions or concerns, please call our office. We're always happy to help you.