After the Removal of Multiple Teeth
Following the extraction of multiple teeth, it is normal to experience some bleeding. If this happens, place a gauze pad over the wound site and bite down for half an hour. If bleeding continues, you can either repeat this step with a clean gauze pad or bite down on a moist tea bag.
If you do experience bleeding, keep your head elevated, and avoid exercise and hot liquids. If bleeding persists, reach out to our office for further instruction.
Denture wearers can expect some oozing from the sides of their dentures. Do not remove the dentures unless the bleeding becomes severe.
Ice packs can help keep swelling under control. Apply ice to the sides of the face where you had teeth extracted. Use ice for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off while you are awake, for the first 36 hours following your procedure.
If you experience mild to moderate pain, you may take one or two tablets of Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol, or two to three 200 mg of Ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) tablets every three to four hours.
For more severe pain, take the pain medications that are prescribed by your surgeon, and use them as directed.
If an antibiotic is prescribed, take it as directed, regardless of the symptoms you experience.
If you have had teeth extracted, it is important to replenish the blood you lost. The best way to do this is by ensuring plenty of fluid intake. Drink at least six glasses of water on the first day following your procedure.
On the day of your surgery, avoid rinsing or mouth washing of any kind. You may brush your teeth at night, but be very gentle in your rinsing.
On the day after surgery, start by rinsing every four hours or so, especially after eating. Rinse with a mixture of salt and warm water.
Initially, you will want to restrict your diet to liquids, then graduate to soft foods. You are welcome to advance your diet as you feel comfortable doing so.
Having many teeth extracted at one time is quite different from having just one or two teeth removed. During the extraction of multiple teeth, the bone must be shaped and smoothed prior to the insertion of a denture. In this case, the following conditions may occur and are considered normal:
- You may experience swelling and discoloration, sometimes around the eye. Swelling usually begins the day after surgery and reaches its peak within two or three days, then dissipates on its own. You can minimize swelling by applying a warm compress to the affected area.
- It is normal to experience a sore throat, simply due to the throat muscles swelling. This should resolve on its own over the course of two or three days.
- Also, note that your lips may become dry or cracked. Application of Vaseline or other ointments can help a great deal.
If immediate dentures have been placed, you may notice the development of some sore spots. In most cases, your regular dentist will see you within 24-48 hours after surgery and make the necessary adjustments to relieve sore spots. Failure to make this appointment may result in severe denture sores, which can, in turn, extend your healing process.
