Home Instructions After the Removal of Multiple Teeth

A small amount of bleeding is normal following multiple tooth extractions . If bleeding occurs, place a gauze pad over the area and bite down firmly for 30 minutes. If bleeding continues, try biting on a moistened black tea bag for 30 minutes—the tannins in the tea can help constrict blood vessels and encourage clotting. Avoid hot drinks, strenuous activity, and keep your head elevated to minimize bleeding. If heavy bleeding continues, contact our office. Do not remove your immediate denture unless the bleeding is excessive. Some mild oozing around the denture edges is expected.

Apply ice packs to the cheeks near the surgical sites to help reduce swelling. Ice should be used continuously for the first 36 hours while you are awake.

For mild pain, you may take over-the-counter medications such as aspirin, Tylenol, or similar products—two tablets every 3–4 hours. Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) can also be used: 2–3 tablets every 3–4 hours unless otherwise directed.

For more intense discomfort, use the prescribed medication as directed. If your pain does not begin to improve after 48 hours—or worsens—please call our office. If you’re prescribed antibiotics, complete the full course unless otherwise advised due to a reaction.

Stay well-hydrated. If you’ve had multiple teeth removed, replenishing fluids is important. Try to drink at least six glasses of water or clear liquids on the first day.

Avoid rinsing your mouth for the first 24 hours or while bleeding is active. After the first day, gently rinse with warm salt water (1 teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of water) every four hours and after meals. If you’ve been fitted with immediate dentures, continue rinsing 3–4 times a day once you’ve had your follow-up denture adjustment appointment.

Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods and liquids as you recover. As healing progresses, you can gradually return to your normal eating habits.

Having several teeth removed at once is more involved than a single extraction. The following are normal side effects and should not be cause for concern:

• Swelling is common and usually peaks around the second day. Some bruising or discoloration may appear, even around the eyes. After 36 hours, you can switch from cold packs to warm, moist towels to help ease discoloration. Apply as often as comfortable.
• A sore throat may occur as nearby muscles become irritated. This is a common and temporary side effect that typically fades within 2–3 days.
• The corners of your mouth may feel sore or dry due to stretching during surgery. Apply a moisturizing ointment like Vaseline to keep lips from cracking. A slight fever for the first 24–48 hours is not unusual, but if it persists or rises, please notify our office.

If you’ve received immediate dentures, you may experience sore spots. In most cases, your dentist will see you within 24–48 hours for adjustments. It’s important to attend this follow-up to avoid irritation that can delay healing.