HOME CARE AFTER MULTIPLE TOOTH EXTRACTIONS

A small amount of bleeding is to be expected following the operation to remove multiple teeth. If bleeding occurs, place a gauze pad directly over the bleeding socket and apply biting pressure for 30 minutes to an hour.  If bleeding continues, replace gauze pads on the bleeding site and apply pressure for an additional 30 minutes to an hour.   If bleeding persists, call our office immediately.  If an immediate denture is placed and there is bleeding around the denture, remove denture, bite on thick gauze for an additional 30 minutes to an hour.  Replace denture when bleeding stops.  A small amount of oozing is normal.  

Use ice packs (externally) on the cheek near the surgical site.  Apply as much as possible for the first 2-3 days.  

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. Pain will peak 2-3 days following a procedure and then slowly begin to subside..  If an antibiotic has been prescribed, make sure to finish your prescription unless you have an allergic reaction..

Do not rinse your mouth for the first two post-operative days, or while there is bleeding. Rinsing promotes bleeding.  After two days, 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 2-3 days. Swelling and discoloration around the eyes may occur. The application of a moist warm towel will help eliminate the discoloration. 
• 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.
• The corners of the mouth 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.