If you are undergoing an oral surgical procedure involving the removal of multiple teeth, it is important to review and follow these simple post-operative instructions.
The surgical removal of one or many teeth at one time is quite different than the simple extraction of one or two teeth. Because bone must be removed and, if necessary, be shaped and smoothed before 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 (2) days. Swelling and discoloration around the eye may occur. The application of a warm moist towel will help eliminate the discoloration. The towel should be applied continuously for as long as tolerable 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 of 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 in your body’s 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.
Bleeding
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 minutes. If bleeding continues, a moist tea bag can be used for 30 minutes. If bleeding persists, call our office immediately. Do not remove immediate dentures unless the bleeding is severe. Expect some oozing around the side of the denture.
Swelling
Use ice packs (externally) on the same side of the face as the operated area. Apply ice for the first 36 hours only. Apply ice continuously while you are awake. You should begin taking prescribed anti-inflammatory medication as soon as you begin taking fluids or eating. The local anaesthetic will typically stop being effective within hours. Your surgeon may choose to utilize long-duration local anaesthetics in specific cases. If so, the duration of anaesthesia may be 6—8 hours.
Pain
If you experience severe pain, the prescribed narcotic pain medication should be taken as directed.
Antibiotics
If an antibiotic has been prescribed, finish your antibiotic prescription even if the signs and symptoms of infection have been resolved.
Diet/Fluids
Drink plenty of fluids. If many teeth have been extracted, the blood lost at this time needs to be replaced. Drink at least six (6) glasses of liquid the first 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.
Do not rinse your mouth vigorously. After the first day, use a warm salt-water rinse (1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of lukewarm water) every four hours and following meals to flush out particles of food and debris that may lodge in the operated area. After you have been seen for denture adjustment, take out the denture and rinse 3—4 times a day.
If you have questions or concerns about any post-operative subject matter, call our office.