We put high priority on children’s comfort at Kidz Connextion in Phoenix. When children need to be numbed for a procedure, we’re efficient and offer nitrous oxide to relieve their anxiety. But we depend on our patients and their parents to cooperate in order to prevent complications. One potential issue that may come up otherwise is a swollen lip, so we want the families we serve to understand what causes it and what they should do if one develops.
The alveolar nerve is what supplies sensations to the chin and lower lip. We often numb it with an injected anesthetic when doing work such as fillings and extractions. Loss of sensation in the lower lip makes it feel rubbery, and children who are new to being anesthetized may bite down on it out of curiosity. But, being numb, they have difficulty judging how hard they are biting, and can easily exert great force. Within hours of being bitten, the ulcerated lip may begin swelling, becoming several times its usual size.
The swelling is usually only somewhat uncomfortable, but it may look frightening and interfere with eating and speaking. If it is red and the child has a fever, it may be infected, in which case it would require antibiotics. But if not, it will reduce within a week. Children should be reminded to avoid biting when they go home numb after a procedure, but they can also reduce swelling by applying ice packs for fifteen minute intervals. After forty-eight hours, they may switch to heat packs, as long as they continue alternating the pack on and off every fifteen minutes.
Kidz Connextion has three convenient locations in Phoenix, Arizona. To schedule an appointment at 2533 N 75th St, text 623-232-0749. For our office at 2046 N 24th St, text 480-666-5984. For our office at 524 E Baseline Rd, text 480-405-4714. Or, visit Kidz Connextion on our website.
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