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Surgical Instructions

After the Removal of Multiple Teeth

  • 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, 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.
  • If bleeding occurs, 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 continuously while you are awake.

  • For mild discomfort use aspirin, Tylenol, or any similar medication; two tablets every 3-4 hours.
  • Two to three tablets of Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) can be taken every 3-4 hours.

  • For severe pain, use the prescription given to you.
  • If the pain does not begin to subside after 2 days, or increases after 2 days, please call our office.
  • If an antibiotic has been prescribed, make sure to finish your prescription unless you have an allergic reaction.

  • 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 every 4 hours and following meals to flush out particles of food and debris that may lodge in the operated area.

  • (One teaspoon of salt in one cup of warm water).
  • 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.
  • As the wounds heal, you will be able to resume your normal diet.

  • 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 eliminate 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 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.
  • 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.