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 30-60 minutes. If bleeding continues, a moist tea bag (normal caffeninated tea bag)can be used for 30-60 minutes. If bleeding occurs, avoid hot liquids, exercise, and elevate the head. If bleeding persists, call our office immediately. If immediate denture was placed 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 same side of the face as the operated area. Apply ice for the first 24-48 hours only. Apply ice for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off while you are awake.
For mild discomfort useIbuprofen (Motrin) 200mg can be taken 2-4 tablets, every 3-4 hours or as directed by the bottle.
For severe pain use the prescription given to you by your surgeon. If an antibiotic has been prescribed, finish your prescription regardless of your symptoms.
Drink plenty of fluids. Normally, at least six glasses of liquid the first day.
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 gently 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 denture adjustment, take out denture and rinse 3 to 4 times a day.
Restrict your diet to liquids and soft foods, which are comfortable for you to eat. As the wounds heal, you will be able to advance your diet.
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 by two days. Swelling and discoloration of the face may occur. The application of a moist warm towel will help eliminate the discoloration quicker. The towel should be applied 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off beginning 24-36 hours after surgery (remember ice packs are used for the first 36 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 above 101, 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 follow up with your general dentist may result in severe denture sores, which may prolong the healing process.