Preparing for Multiple Tooth Extractions

How to Care for Your Mouth after Multiple Teeth Have Been Extracted

If bleeding happens after extractions, place a gauze pad directly over the bleeding  and apply biting pressure for 30 minutes. If bleeding continues, a moist tea bag can be used for 30 minutes. If bleeding occurs, try not to have hot liquids and elevate your head using a pillow or head rest. Do not remove immediate denture unless the bleeding is too severe. Expect some oozing around the side of the denture.

Use ice packs (only on the outside of your mouth) on the same side of the face as the area where the multiple extraction surgery has taken place. You should only apply ice for the first 36 hours only. When you do apply ice, try to apply ice 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off while you are awake.

For mild discomfort use aspirin, Tylenol or any similar medication; two tablets every three to four hours. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) 200mg can be taken two to three tablets every three to four hours.

For severe pain, use the prescription given to you. If an antibiotic has been prescribed, please take as directed by your doctor.

Drink Plenty of Fluids and Eat Soft Foods

Do not rinse your mouth for the first post-operative day, or while there is bleeding. After the first day, use a salt water or warm water rinse and brush gently every four hours and following meals to flush out particles of food and debris that may lodge in the operated area. (One teaspoon of salt in a glass of lukewarm water.). After you have seen your dentist for denture adjustment, take out denture and rinse three to four times a 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 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 in two days. Swelling and discoloration around the eye may occur. The application of a moist warm towel will help eliminate the discoloration. The towel should be applied beginning 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 two to three 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 the 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.