Bleeding A small amount of bleeding is normal following multiple tooth extractions. If bleeding occurs, place a gauze pad over the affected area and bite down with firm pressure for 30 minutes. If heavy bleeding persists, contact our office immediately. If you have an immediate denture, do not remove it unless bleeding is excessive, as some oozing around the denture is expected.
Swelling Swelling is a natural response to surgery and may cause temporary discomfort. To reduce swelling, apply an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas to the sides of your face where the extractions were performed. Keep the ice pack in place for 20 minutes, then remove it for 20 minutes, repeating this process as needed for the first 24 hours. Ice should not be applied directly to the skin. After 36 hours, switch to warm compresses to help minimize discoloration and promote healing.
Pain Management Mild discomfort can be managed with ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®), taking two to three 200 mg tablets every 3–4 hours. If your pain is more severe, use the prescribed medication as directed. If pain does not begin to subside after two days or worsens, please contact our office. If antibiotics are prescribed, complete the full course, even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication.
Diet Staying hydrated is crucial for recovery. If multiple teeth were extracted, replacing lost fluids is especially important. Drink at least six glasses of liquid on the first day. Avoid hot foods and beverages for the first 24 hours. Stick to soft foods such as soups, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs, gradually reintroducing a regular diet as tolerated.
Oral Hygiene Refrain from rinsing your mouth or using mouthwash for the first 24 hours post-surgery. After the first day, rinse gently with a warm saltwater solution (½ teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water) every 2–4 hours, especially after meals, to keep the surgical site clean. If you have an immediate denture, continue rinsing as instructed after any necessary adjustments.
Expected Post-Surgical Effects
- Swelling may peak within 2–3 days and should gradually subside over 3–5 days. Bruising or discoloration near the extraction sites or eyes may occur; warm compresses can help minimize this.
- A mild sore throat may develop due to swelling near the throat muscles and should resolve within a few days.
- The corners of the mouth may become dry or cracked due to stretching; applying Vaseline® or lip balm will help prevent discomfort.
- A slight fever may occur for the first 24–48 hours. If a fever persists beyond this timeframe, contact our office.
Denture Care If immediate dentures have been placed, sore spots may develop. Your dentist will typically schedule a follow-up appointment within 24–48 hours to make necessary adjustments. If discomfort from the denture persists, do not delay contacting your dentist, as prolonged irritation can slow the healing process.
Sutures If stitches were placed, they are usually self-dissolving and will fall out within a week. If you were informed that your sutures require removal, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled.
Following these instructions will aid in a smooth and comfortable recovery. If you have any concerns or experience unusual symptoms, please contact our office for further guidance.