After Multiple Teeth Extractions
Oral surgeon Johns Creek, GA. Detailed recovery instructions after multiple tooth extractions and bone contouring, including immediate denture guidelines.
A small amount of bleeding is to be expected with multiple extractions. If bleeding occurs, place a gauze pad directly over the bleeding socket and apply biting pressure for 30 – 45 minutes. If bleeding continues, bite on a moistened black tea bag for 30 minutes. The tannic acid in the black tea helps to form a clot by contracting blood vessels. If bleeding persists, call our office immediately.
If you were instructed to wear an immediate denture/prosthesis after extractions please do not remove the immediate denture unless the bleeding is severe. Expect some oozing around the sides of the denture.
Swelling & Ice Packs
Use ice packs (externally) on the cheek near the surgical site. Apply ice for the first 24 hours only. Starting the following day you may use a warm wet rag against the face to help further minimize discomfort and swelling.
Discomfort & Medication
For mild discomfort you may use Tylenol, or any similar medication; two tablets every 3-4 hours. Two to four tablets of Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) can be taken every 6 hours. Care should be taken not to exceed the daily max dose indicated on the bottle.
For severe pain, use the prescriptions given to you. If the pain does not begin to subside after 3 days, or increases after 3 days, please call our office. If an antibiotic has been prescribed, please take as prescribed till completed. If you are allergic to any medication please do not take it; if allergy develops unexpectedly please stop medications and call our office immediately.
Fluids & Diet
Drink plenty of fluids. If many teeth have been extracted, the volume 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.
Oral Hygiene & Immediate Dentures
Do not rinse your mouth or brush your other teeth for the first day, or while there is bleeding. After the first day, use a warm salt water rinse following meals to flush out particles of food and debris that may lodge in the operated area. (One teaspoon of salt in one glass of warm water).
If you were instructed to wear a denture, you may remove it after 48 hrs. Please rinse the denture and clean it with an antibacterial solution at which point it can be replaced, this is to be done 3-4 times a day especially after meals starting 48 hrs after surgery.
What to Expect: Multiple Extractions vs. Single Extractions
The removal of many teeth at one time is quite different from the extraction of just one or two teeth. Because the bone typically must be shaved and smoothed for patient comfort and optimal healing. The following conditions may occur, all of which are considered normal:
- Swelling & Discoloration: The area operated on will usually swell, reaching a maximum in two days. Swelling and discoloration around the eyes may occur. The application of a moist warm towel will help eliminate the discoloration. The towel should be applied continuously for as long as is tolerable, beginning immediately after surgery. (Remember: ice packs are used for the first 24-48 hours only).
- Sore Throat: 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 sometimes normal and should subside in 2-3 days.
- Corners of the Mouth & Temperature: 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.
Denture Adjustments & Sore Spots
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. Please call our office if severe soreness or tenderness develops.
Questions About Your Recovery?
If you have concerns during your healing process, our team is here to help. Call our office or request a follow-up appointment online.