After Multiple Tooth Extractions – Fredericksburg VA
Please review our General Post-Operative instructions in addition to the following information that applies when a number of erupted teeth have been removed.
The removal of many teeth at one time is quite different than the extraction of one or two teeth. There are more extraction sites that can bleed, become infected or irritated and therefore need to be monitored for appropriate healing.
The area operated on may swell, reaching a maximum in two to three days. Swelling and discoloration around the eye may occur when upper teeth have been removed. The application of a moist warm towel will help eliminate the discoloration quicker. The towel should be applied continuously for as long as tolerable beginning 36-48 hours after surgery when you are awake (remember ice packs are used for the first 24-36 hours only).
A sore throat may develop. The muscles of the throat are near the extraction sites. Swelling into the throat muscles can cause pain. This is normal and should subside in 2-3 days. If not, let us know.
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 or lip balm.
There may be a slight elevation of temperature for 24-48 hours. If temperature continues, notify our office.
Any irregular areas of bone identified at the time of surgery are usually smoothed. Occasionally there are sharp edges or loose pieces of bone that irritate your tongue or cheeks following the removal of multiple teeth. Oftentimes they will smooth or fall out on their own. If persistent irritation occurs, let us know so that we may smooth or trim any irritated areas.
If sutures were placed they will usually dissolve at 7-10 days following surgery. If they loosen and fall out beforehand they do not need to be replaced.
If immediate dentures have been inserted, sore spots may develop. In many cases your regular dentist will see you within 24-48 hours after surgery and make the necessary adjustments to relieve those sore spots. Occasionally we will wait longer to evaluate the healing and make any needed adjustments. Failure to do so may result in severe denture sores, which may prolong the healing process.
If dentures are to be made after you have healed, we would like to see you in our office 1-2 weeks prior to your impressions to make sure the surgical sites are acceptable for denture fabrication.
It is our desire that your recovery be as smooth and pleasant as possible. Following these instructions will assist you, but if you have questions about your progress, please call the office. Please try to call during office hours; however a 24-hour answering service is available for after hours contact with a doctor. The after hours telephone number is Fredericksburg Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center Phone Number 540-710-8880.