After the Removal of Multiple Teeth

Home Instructions After the Removal of Multiple Teeth

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.
  • 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. You can relieve this by applying a moisturizing ointment.
  • 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.

BLEEDING

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 – 45 minutes. If bleeding continues, please call the office for further instructions. To reduce bleeding, avoid hot liquids, vigorous exercise, and elevate the head. If you have an immediate denture placed, some oozing around the side of the denture is to be expected. Should bleeding persists, do not remove the immediate denture unless the bleeding is severe and call the office.

SWELLING

Use ice packs (externally) or a plastic bag filled with ice on the cheek near the surgical site. Apply ice while you are awake, for the first 36 hours only, rotating for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off.

PAIN

You should begin taking pain medication as soon as you get something to eat.

For moderate pain, we recommend taking Tylenol and Ibuprofen at the same time to start and then alternating between the two. 1-2 tablets of Tylenol or Extra Strength Tylenol may be taken every 6 hours. Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) bought over the counter comes in 200 mg tablets: 3-4 tablets may be taken every 6 hours, not to exceed 3200 mg daily for an adult. Consult our practice or your pharmacy for individuals under 18. For severe pain, the prescribed medication should be taken as directed.

Do not take any of the above medication if you are allergic to them, or have been instructed by your doctor not to take it. Do not drive an automobile or work around machinery. Avoid alcoholic beverages. 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 even if symptoms improve. If an allergic reaction to any medication occurs discontinue use and call the office immediately.

DIET

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.

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. Avoid hard foods, and hot liquids and foods for at least one week.

ORAL HYGIENE

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 or oral mouth rinse daily 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, follow hygiene instructions given to you by your dentist. Keeping your wounds clean will lead to quicker healing and a better adjustment to your denture.