After the Removal of Multiple Teeth

A small amount of bleeding is to be expected following the surgery. If bleeding occurs, place a gauze pad directly over the surgical sites and apply gentle pressure for 20-30 minutes. If bleeding continues, bite on a moistened black tea bag for thirty minutes. The tannic acid in the black tea helps to form a clot by contracting blood vessels. If bleeding occurs, avoid hot liquids, exercise, and elevate the head. If bleeding persists, please call our office. Do not remove the immediate denture unless the bleeding is severe. Expect some oozing around the side of the denture.

Use ice packs or a bag of frozen peas on the cheek near the surgical site. Apply ice for the first 24-48 hours only. Apply ice continuously while you are awake.

For mild to moderate pain, the medication of choice is an anti-inflammatory like Advil or Motrin (generic name is Ibuprofen). Take 2-3 tablets up to four times a day, not to exceed 3200mg daily for an adult. If you are not able to take an anti-inflammatory medication you can substitute Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol. 

For severe pain, the prescribed medication should be taken as directed. If the pain does not begin to subside after 2 days, or increases after 2 days, please call our office. If an antibiotic has been prescribed, make sure to finish your prescription unless you have an allergic reaction.

You can rinse your mouth very gently the first day.  You can use either warm salt water or an over the counter mouth rinse. After you have seen your dentist for a denture adjustment, you can begin to take out the denture and rinse 3 to 4 times a day to keep the surgical sites as clean as possible.

Restrict your diet to liquids and soft foods that are comfortable for you to eat. As the wounds heal, you will be able to resume your normal diet.

The removal of many teeth at one time is quite different from the extraction of just one or two teeth. Because the bone must be shaped and smoothed prior to the insertion of a denture, the following conditions may occur, all of which are considered normal:

• The area operated on may become swollen, reaching a maximum in 24-48 hours. Swelling and discoloration around the eyes may occur. The application of a moist heat compress will help eliminate the discoloration. The compress should be applied continuously for as long as is tolerable, beginning 48 hours after  surgery. (Remember: ice packs are used for the first 24-48 hours only).
• Sore throats and pain when swallowing are not uncommon. This is normal and should subside in 2-3 days.
• If the corners of the mouth are stretched, they may dry out and crack. Your lips should be kept moist with an ointment like Vaseline or Aquaphor. There may be a slight elevation of temperature for 24-48 hours. If your temperature continues to rise, notify our office.

If immediate dentures have been inserted, sore spots may develop. In most cases, your dentist will see you within 24-48 hours after surgery to make the necessary adjustments and relieve those sore spots. Failure to do so may result in severe denture sores, which may prolong the healing process.