After the Removal of Multiple Teeth

Home Instructions After the Removal of Multiple Teeth

Bleeding

A small amount of bleeding is to be expected following the operation. If bleeding occurs, place a gauze pad directly over the bleeding socket and apply biting pressure for 30 minutes. If bleeding continues, a moist tea bag can be used for 30 minutes. If bleeding occurs, avoid hot liquids, exercise, and elevate the head. If bleeding persists, call our office immediately. Do not remove immediate denture unless the bleeding is severe. Expect some oozing around the side of the denture.

Swelling

Use ice packs (externally) on the same side of the face as the operated area. Apply ice for the first 36 hours only. Apply ice intermittently while you are awake.

Pain

This is normal following surgical procedures, and the most severe discomfort is usually within the first six (6) hours after the anesthetic wears off. It is our goal to minimize this discomfort. If you are able to, take Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS, such as Ibuprofen or Aleve). Good options include one of the following:

– Over the counter Aleve (Naproxen) –1-2 tablets every 12 hours

– Over the counter Advil (Ibuprofen 200mg) – up to 3 tablets every 6 hours

If able, use one of the above options for the first 3 days following surgery to be taken on a scheduled basis even if little or no pain is experienced. By “staying ahead” of the pain, less overall use of medicine is usually accomplished. If you find the Ibuprofen/Advil or Aleve inadequate, begin using 1-2 regular strength Tylenol (325 mg tablets each) every 6 hours in addition to the Ibuprofen/Advil or Aleve.

If you are unable to take NSAIDS, 1 Extra Strength Tylenol (500mg), or 1-2 Regular Strength Tylenol (325mg each) is often sufficient when started prior to the anesthetic wearing off, and then continued on a schedule every 6 hours.

Oral Hygiene

Do not rinse your mouth for the first post-operative day, or while there is bleeding. After the first day, use a warm salt-water rinse every four hours and following meals to flush out particles of food and debris that may lodge in the operated area. (One teaspoon of salt in a glass of lukewarm water.). After you have seen your dentist for denture adjustment, take out denture and rinse three to four times a day.

Diet

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

The removal of many teeth at one time is quite different than the extraction of 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 eye may occur. The application of a moist warm towel will help eliminate the discoloration. The towel should be applied continuously for as long as tolerable beginning 36 hours after surgery (remember ice packs are used for the first 36 hours only).
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 two to three 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 temperature continues, notify the 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 and make the necessary adjustments to relieve those sore spots. Failure to do so may result in severe denture sores, which may prolong the healing process.