After the Removal of Multiple Teeth

Home Instructions After the Removal of Multiple Teeth

Bleeding is to be expected following the operation to remove multiple teeth. Place a gauze pad directly over the surgery area and apply biting pressure. Changing the gauze every 20-30 minutes until the initial bleeding stops. It is normal to experience bleeding or oozong for up to 24-48 hours following the procedure. If bleeding persists, call our office.

Use ice packs (externally) on the cheek near the surgical site. Apply ice for the first 24 hours only to help reduce swelling.

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. It is normal to experience some discomfort for up to 72 hours following the procedure. If an antibiotic has been prescribed, make sure to finish your prescription unless you have an allergic reaction..

Drink plenty of fluids, avoiding drinking from a straw or bottle for the first 24 hours. 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.

Do not rinse your mouth for the first 24 hours following the procedure. 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 teaspoon of salt in one cup of warm water). 

• 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. The towel should be applied continuously for as long as is tolerable, beginning 48 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 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 placed, sore spots may develop. In most cases, your dentist will need to see you within 24-48 hours after surgery to make the necessary adjustments and relieve any sore spots. DO NOT REMOVE DENTURES FOR THE FIRST 24 HOURS after your procedure. After 24 hours the dentures may be removed long enough to rinse your mouth with warm salt water 3-4 times daily, dentures need to be kept in as much as possible for the first 3 days, unless otherwise noted by your general dentist.