After the Removal of Multiple Teeth

The following information applies when you have had multiple teeth extracted. A small amount of bleeding is to be expected following the surgery. When bleeding occurs, fold a gauze pad and place directly over the bleeding socket. Apply biting pressure for 30 minutes and repeat this process until the bleeding stops. If bleeding continues without signs of slowing, a moist tea bag can be used in the place of the gauze pad for 30 minutes. When bleeding occurs, avoid hot liquids, exercise, and elevate the head. If bleeding persists, call our office immediately. Do not remove immediate denture unless the bleeding is severe. Expect some oozing around the side of the denture.

Apply ice packs (externally) on the same side of the face as the operated area in 20 minute intervals. Apply ice for the first 24 hours only.

You should begin taking pain medication before you feel the local anesthetic wearing off. DO NOT take any pain medication on an empty stomach. For mild pain, 1 or 2 Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol may be taken every 4-6 hours. Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) may be taken instead of Tylenol. Ibuprofen, bought over the counter comes in 200 mg tablets: 2-3 tablets may be taken every 6 hours as needed for pain. For moderate pain 1-2 Tylenol and 3 Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) may be taken together every 6 hours. For severe pain, the prescribed medication should be taken as directed (if taking prescribed medication, discontinue taking Tylenol, or any other Acetaminophen product). Do not take any of the above medication if you are allergic, or have been instructed by your doctor not to take it. If you experience an adverse reaction to any of the pain medication, discontinue use and contact our office .

If an antibiotic has been prescribed, finish your prescription regardless of your symptoms.

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 half teaspoon of salt in a glass of luke warm water.). After you have seen your dentist for denture adjustment, take out denture and rinse 3 to 4 times a day.

Restrict your diet to liquids and soft foods for 4-7 days after surgery. As the wounds heal, you can advance your diet as it feels comfortable unless otherwise specified by the doctor.

The removal of many teeth at one time is quite different than the extraction of one or two teeth. Sometimes the bone must be shaped and smoothed prior to the insertion of a denture or other prosthesis. As a result, the following conditions may occur; all of which are considered normal.

• The area operated on will swell reaching a maximum in 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 24 hours after surgery (remember ice packs are used for the first 24 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 3-4 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. 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.

It is our desire that your recovery be as smooth and pleasant as possible. Following these instructions will assist you, but if you have questions about your progress, please call the office. Please try to call during office hours; however a 24-hour answering service is available if you need to speak to a doctor after hours.