After the Removal of Multiple Teeth
Post-operative Instructions
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 persists for several hours, call our office. If immediate dentures were placed, avoid removing them unless the bleeding is severe. It is normal to expect some oozing around the side of the denture.
Use the supplied ice packs (externally) on the same side of the face as the operated area. Apply ice for the first 24 hours continuously while you are awake.
For your discomfort pain medications will be prescribed. Please take them as instructed for the best result.
Do not rinse your mouth for the first post-operative day, or while there is bleeding. After the first day, you may use a warm saltwater rinse every 4 hours and 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 (usually the following day), take out your denture and rinse 3 to 4 times a day.
Restrict your diet to cool 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 two 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 36 hours after surgery (remember ice packs are generally used for the first 24-36 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 temperature continues, notify our office.
- If immediate dentures have been inserted, sore spots may develop and are not uncommon. 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.
If you have a true emergency and cannot find the answer to your question here you can reach the doctor on call through the answering service at 214-823-5444. Be prepared to state the name of your doctor, the office you were treated in and have the number of a pharmacy available.