After Multiple Extractions
Controlling Bleeding After Multiple Extractions
After multiple extractions, bleeding may occur. If you notice a small amount of blood mixed with saliva around your new immediate denture, it’s usually not a cause for concern. However, if bleeding persists for more than two hours or if there’s a larger volume of undiluted blood, remove the denture. Apply folded gauze with firm pressure for at least 30 minutes. If unsuccessful, try a tea bag for its clot-promoting tannic acid. Avoid exercise, elevate your head, and refrain from eating and drinking during bleeding control. If these measures fail, contact Bluebonnet Oral Surgery and Implants for instructions or return for further treatment if necessary.
Managing Pain After Your Procedure
Apply ice packs externally to the same side of the face as the operated area. Utilize ice for the initial 24 hours only. Keep the ice on continuously while awake, but take a five-minute break every half hour to prevent cold injury. For mild discomfort, consider aspirin, Tylenol, or a similar medication—take two tablets every three to four hours. Alternatively, Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) at 200mg can be taken as two to three tablets every four to six hours. In case of severe pain, use the prescribed medication provided. If the pain does not show signs of subsiding within two days or worsens after this period, contact our office. If an antibiotic has been prescribed, complete the entire prescription regardless of symptom improvement.
Potential Complications & Solutions
Multiple tooth extraction involves bone shaping for denture placement, differing from the removal of one or two teeth. Normal conditions include:
- Swelling peaks in two days, with potential discoloration around the eye. Apply a warm towel continuously from 36 hours post-surgery (ice packs for the first 24 hours).
- Throat muscle proximity may cause a sore throat, typically improving in 2-3 days.
- Stretching corners of the mouth may lead to dryness; keep lips moist with Vaseline.
- A slight temperature increase may last 24-48 hours; contact our office if fever persists.
- Immediate dentures may cause sore spots; adjustments within 24-48 hours are crucial to prevent severe sores and expedite healing.
Instructions for Mouth Rinsing & Diet
Avoid rinsing your mouth on the first day after the surgery or during bleeding. Starting from the second day, implement warm salt water rinses (mixing one-half teaspoon of salt in a glass of lukewarm water) every four hours and after meals. This helps eliminate food particles and debris that might become lodged in the surgical area. Once your dentist has made adjustments to your dentures, remove them and rinse three to four times a day. Stick to a diet consisting of liquids and soft foods that are comfortable for you to consume. As the wounds gradually heal, you can progressively reintroduce a more varied diet.