After Removal of Multiple Teeth

After 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.

Bleeding

A small amount of bleeding is to be expected after removal of multiple teeth. If bleeding occurs, place a gauze pad directly over the bleeding socket and apply biting pressure for 30-60 minutes. If bleeding continues, a moist tea bag wrapped in a gauge can be used for 30-60 minutes. If bleeding occurs, avoid hot liquids, exercise, and elevate the head. If bleeding persists, call the office.

Use ice packs (externally) on the same side of the face as the operated area. Apply ice for the first 48 hours only. Apply ice while you are awake.

Pain

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.

For moderate pain, two tablets of Extra Strength Tylenol in combination with four tablets of Ibuprofen, (Motrin or Advil) (Tylenol 1000mg and Advil 800mg) may be taken every 4 hours. For severe pain, take the tablets prescribed for pain as directed. The prescribed pain medicine will make you groggy and will slow down your reflexes. Do not drive an automobile or work around machinery. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Pain or discomfort following surgery should subside more and more every day. If pain persists, it may require attention and you should call the office. Please note, the combination of Advil and Tylenol should only be used if the prescription medication is not being taken.

For severe pain, use the prescription given to you. If an antibiotic has been prescribed, finish your prescription regardless of your symptoms. For additional pain relief, two (2) hours after the prescription pain medicine, 800 mg of Advil may be taken. Two (2) hours later, the prescription medicine may be repeated, etc.

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 4 hours and following meals to flush out particles of food and debris that may lodge in the operated area. (One half teaspoon of salt in a glass of lukewarm water). After you have seen your dentist for denture adjustment, take out denture and rinse 3 to 4 times a day.

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.

Diet

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.

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.

Swelling

The area operated on will swell a maximum in two to three days. Swelling and discoloration around the eye may occur. The application of a moist warm towel will help eliminate the discoloration quicker. The towel should be applied continuously for as long as tolerable beginning 48 hours after surgery (remember ice packs are used for the first 48 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 2-3 days.

For information regarding other surgical instructions, please review this page.