A small amount of bleeding is to be expected following the operation to remove multiple teeth. If bleeding occurs, place a gauze pad directly over the bleeding socket and apply biting pressure for 30 minutes. If bleeding continues, bite on a moistened black tea bag for 30 minutes. The tannic acid in the black tea helps to form a clot by contracting blood vessels. If bleeding occurs, avoid hot liquids, exercise, and elevate the head.

Pain and Swelling Control

Use ice packs externally on the cheek near the surgical site. Apply ice for the first 36 hours only, continuously while you are awake. For mild to moderate pain, two to three tablets of Ibuprofen may be taken every three to four hours. For severe pain, use the prescription given to you. If the pain does not begin to subside after two days or increases after two days, contact our office.

Nutrition and Denture Care

Drink plenty of fluids. If many teeth have been extracted, the blood lost at this time needs to be replaced. Drink at least six glasses of liquid on the first day. Skip rinsing your mouth on the first post-operative day or while bleeding. After the first day, use a warm saltwater rinse every 4 hours and after each meal to flush out particles of food and debris that may lodge in the operated area.

After you have seen your dentist for denture adjustment, take out the denture and rinse it 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 resume your normal diet. The area operated on will swell, reaching a maximum in two or three days. Swelling and discoloration around the eyes may occur. The application of a moist, warm towel will help eliminate the discoloration beginning 36 hours after surgery. A sore throat may develop as the muscles of the throat are near the extraction sites. This is normal and should subside in two to three days. If immediate dentures have been inserted, sore spots may develop. In most cases, your dentist will see you within 24 to 48 hours after surgery to make the necessary adjustments.