Following the extraction of multiple teeth, it is normal to experience some bleeding. If this happens, place a gauze pad over the wound site and bite down for half an hour. If bleeding continues, you can either repeat this step with a clean gauze pad, or bite down on a moist tea bag. 

If you do experience bleeding, keep your head elevated, and avoid exercise and hot liquids. If bleeding persists, reach out to our office for further instruction.

Denture wearers can expect some oozing from the sides of their dentures. Do not remove the dentures unless the bleeding becomes severe.

Ice packs can help keep swelling under control. Apply ice to the sides of the face where you had teeth extracted. Use ice continuously while you are awake, for the first 48 hours following your procedure.

If you experience mild to moderate pain, you may take 600mg of ibuprofen and/or 500mg of Tylenol every six hours.

For more severe pain, take the pain medications that are prescribed by your surgeon, and use them as directed.

If an antibiotic is prescribed, take it as directed,

On the day of surgery, begin using warm salt water rinses after every meal. You may continue brushing your teeth as normal, using a soft toothbrush, making sure to thoroughly clean any teeth adjacent to the surgical site(s).”

Initially, you will want to restrict your diet to liquids, then graduate to soft foods. You are welcome to advance your diet as you feel comfortable doing so.

Having many teeth extracted at one time is quite different from having just one or two teeth removed. During extraction of multiple teeth, the bone must be shaped and smoothed prior to the insertion of a denture. In this case, the following conditions may occur and are considered normal:

  • You may experience swelling and/or bruising that may extend to areas around the eyes and/or below the jaw. Swelling usually begins the day after surgery and reaches its peak within two or three days, then dissipates on its own. You can minimize swelling by applying ice to the treated areas of your face for the first 48 hours. Warm compresses can be used after the first 48 hours to help swelling resolve more rapidly.
  • Also, note that your lips may become dry or cracked. Application of Vaseline or other ointments can help a great deal.
  • Sometimes a bony spicule will be present under the gums after multiple tooth extractions, causing discomfort. This will usually resolve spontaneously and may be exfoliated like a splinter after several weeks. Sometimes a spicule may need treatment if it remains persistent or is extremely bothersome.

If immediate dentures have been placed, you may notice the development of some sore spots. In most cases, your regular dentist will see you within 24-48 hours after surgery and make the necessary adjustments to relieve sore spots. Be sure to make this appointment to prevent severe denture sores, which can, in turn, extend your healing process.