Surgical Instructions

After the Removal of Multiple Teeth

A small amount of bleeding is to be expected following the operation. Place a gauze pack directly over the surgical site and apply pressure by biting down firmly for 30 minutes.  Repeat as necessary, changing the gauze every 30 minutes till bleeding stops.  Bleeding can last several hours.  Avoid rinsing, spitting or sucking on straws for 24 hours, as this can loosen the clot needed for proper healing.  Smokers should avoid smoking for 3 - 4 days, as smoking will slow the healing process and may cause increased discomfort.
 
Expect swelling to increase for 2 - 3 days after surgery.  Place an ice pack firmly against the outside of the face as soon as you get home.  Continue using ice packs for the first 48 hours after surgery, applying them for 30 minutes on and 10 minutes off, using a cloth between the ice pack and skin.  When lying down, elevate your head, using two pillows.
 
Begin using pain medication before the numbness wears off.  Start with half a pill after consuming food.  Take any other prescribed medication as instructed after surgery.  Do not take any of the above medication if you are allergic or have been instructed by your doctor not to take.

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 lukewarm water.). After you have seen your dentist for adjustment, take out the prosthesis (denture or partial) and rinse 3 to 4 times a day.

Drink plenty of fluids.  Avoid hot liquids or food.  Soft cool food and liquids should be eaten on the day of surgery.  Return to a normal diet as soon as possible unless otherwise directed.
 
The removal of many teeth at one time is quite different than the extraction of 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 to 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 48 hours after surgery (remember ice packs are used for the first 48 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 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.