After the Removal of Multiple Teeth
A certain amount of bleeding is expected. Bleeding is best managed with pressure. You must place two 2×2 gauze packs in to the area of the extraction and apply firm pressure of 30 minutes. If necessary, replace the gauze every 30 minutes until the bleeding has stopped. You can expect a slight amount of blood during the first 1-2 days. You must not rinse or spit for the first 24 hours or you will injure the clot and cause the area to continue to bleed. If you have had a denture inserted, expect some oozing around the side of the denture.
Swelling is a normal response following surgery, but can be partially avoided by placing ice packs on the operated area. Apply ice 20 minutes and take if off for 20 minutes for the first 24 hours only.
For mild discomfort use aspirin, Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) 200mg can be taken 2-3 tablets every 6 hours.
For severe pain use the prescription given to you. If the pain does not begin to subside in 2 days, or increases after 2 days, please call our office. If an antibiotic has been prescribed, finish your prescription regardless of your symptoms.
Drink plenty of fluids. If many teeth have been extracted, the blood lost at this time needs to be replaced. Drink at least six glasses of liquid the first day.
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 following meals to flush out particles of food and debris that may lodge in the operated area. After you have seen your dentist for denture adjustment, take out denture and rinse 3 to 4 times a day.
Restrict your diet to liquids and soft foods, which 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 three days. Swelling and discoloration around the eye, face and neck may occur. The application of a moist warm towel will help eliminate the discoloration. The towel should be applied on and off for as long as tolerable beginning 36 hours after surgery
- Do not smoke for the first 3 days after surgery. Avoid smoking for a week or forever if possible.
- 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 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 and make the necessary adjustments to relieve those sore spots.