Home Instructions After the Removal of Multiple Teeth
A small amount of bleeding is to be expected following the operation to remove multiple teeth. If bleeding occurs, place gauze directly over the bleeding socket and apply biting pressure for 60 minutes. If bleeding continues, bite on a moistened black tea bag for 60 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. If applicable, 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(s). Apply ice for the first 24-72 hours only. Apply ice intermittently while you are awake.
An anti-inflammatory will be given for moderate pain alternating it with a narcotic for breakthrough pain.
If an antibiotic has been prescribed, make sure to finish your prescription unless you have an allergic reaction.
Stay hydrated.
Do not rinse your mouth for the first 24 hrs, or while there is bleeding. After the first day, use warm sea salt water rinses twice a day, and following meals to flush out particles of food and debris that may lodge in the operated area. (One teaspoon of sea salt in one cup of warm water). After you have seen your dentist for denture adjustment, take out the denture and rinse twice a day for 2-3 weeks.
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 after about 1 week.
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:
- Swelling will occur, reaching a maximum in 3 days. Swelling and discoloration around the eyes may occur. The application of a moist warm towel around day 4-5 will help eliminate the discoloration. The towel should be applied continuously for as long as is tolerable.
- 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, the restorative dentist will evaluate you within 24-48 hours after surgery to make the necessary adjustments and relieve any sore spots. Failure to do so may result in severe denture sores, which may prolong the healing process.
Contact Precision Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery online or by phone at Phoenix Office Phone Number (623) 518-2325.