What is the treatment for dental cavities?
Patient: my daughter went to a dentist and have 4 cavities filled on Tuesday.  She bit the inside of her cheek and lip several times and now it's very sore, white/yellow in color and one has cracked open, she can hardly open her mouth.  Should I take her to the doctor? Doctor: Hello,Numb areas can include the cheek, lip and tongue with dental anesthsia. A risk can include biting these areas before the anesthetic wears off. This trauma will cause swelling. In general you don not have to worry. Initial placement of ice is helpful to limit swelling. Tylenol, at the appropriate dose, can reduce inflammation. Warm salt water rinses and benzocaine gels can help provide some relief. Help your daughter avoid the area and maintain a soft diet. Normal sensation should have returned to her mouth.Inform your dentist of this condition. Consider completing less dental treatment in a visit, so there is less numbness afterwards. A follow-up visit will be needed if condition seems to be getting worse rather than slowly improving. Time to heal will usually be all that is needed.Thank you for your inquiry. I hope that your daughter feels better soon.