After the Removal of Multiple Teeth

Home Instructions After the Removal of Multiple Teeth

Bleeding is to be expected following the operation to remove multiple teeth. If bleeding occurs, place a gauze pad directly over the bleeding socket and apply biting pressure for 30 minutes. If bleeding continues, you may 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. To assist with quick recovery avoid hot liquids, exercise, and elevate the head. If bleeding persists, call our office immediately. Do not remove the immediate denture unless the bleeding is severe. Expect some oozing around the side of the denture.

Use ice packs (externally) on the cheek near the surgical site. Apply ice for the first 36 hours only. Apply ice for 20 minute intervals with 20 minute breaks while you are awake.

For mild discomfort use Ibuprofen, Tylenol, or any similar medication; follow the recommended dosage directions on the packaging.

For severe pain, use the prescription given to you. Pain typically peaks around 48 hours after the procedure. If an antibiotic has been prescribed, make sure to finish your prescription. If you have an allergic reaction stop taking any medication and call the office immediately. If you experience any constriction of breathing call 911 immediately.

Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to assist in healing. Drink at least six glasses of liquid the first day.

Do not rinse your mouth the first day, or while there is bleeding. After the first day, use a warm salt water rinse every 4 hours and following meals to flush out particles of food and debris that may lodge in the operated area. (1/4 teaspoon of salt in one cup of warm water). If you have a denture, after you have seen your dentist for denture adjustment, take out the denture and rinse 3 to 4 times a day.

Restrict your diet to liquids and soft foods that are comfortable for you to eat. After the first day you may resume eating normally per your comfort level and avoiding chewing over the extractions site(s).

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 will swell, reaching a maximum in two days. Swelling and discoloration around the eyes may occur. The application of a moist warm towel will help the discoloration. The towel should be applied continuously for as long as is tolerable, beginning 36 hours after surgery. (Remember: ice packs are used for the first 36 hours).
• A sore throat may develop. The muscles of the throat are near the extraction sites. Swelling into the throat muscles can cause pain. 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. 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.