After the Removal of Multiple Teeth

A small amount of bleeding or oozing is normal.
If bleeding occurs, place gauze directly over the socket and bite firmly for 30 minutes.
If bleeding continues, bite on a moistened tea bag for 30 minutes.
While bleeding, avoid hot liquids, exercise, and keep your head elevated.
Do not remove an immediate denture unless bleeding is severe.
Some oozing around the edges of the denture is normal, especially after eating.
If bleeding does not settle, contact the practice immediately.

Use ice packs on the outside of the face on the same side as the surgery.
Apply ice continuously while awake for the first 36 hours only.
Swelling usually peaks around day 2 and may include bruising or discoloration near the eye.
After 36 hours, moist heat (a warm towel) can help reduce swelling and bruising.

For mild discomfort, use Paracetamol or Ibuprofen.
We will usually prescribe:
- Paracetamol 500 mg: 2 tablets, four times daily
- Anti-inflammatory (e.g. Tilcotil 20 mg): once or twice daily
- Codeine for stronger pain if needed
Codeine can cause nausea, drowsiness, and constipation, so use only if required.
If pain does not begin to improve after 2 days, or worsens, please contact the office.
If antibiotics are prescribed, complete the full course.

Drink plenty of fluids, especially if several teeth were removed. Aim for at least six glasses on the first day.
Stick to liquids and soft foods that are comfortable to eat.
As healing progresses, you can slowly return to a normal diet.

Do not rinse on the day of surgery or while bleeding continues.
From the next day, rinse with warm salt water every 4 hours and after meals
(½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm, “cup of tea” temperature water).
After your denture adjustment appointment, remove and rinse your denture 3–4 times daily.

When several teeth are removed and dentures are fitted, the following are common and expected:

Swelling that peaks at 2 days, sometimes with bruising around the eyes
A sore throat, which usually settles within 2–3 days
Dry or cracked lips — keep them moist with Vaseline
A slight temperature for 24–48 hours (contact us if it persists)
Sore spots from immediate dentures — these are common and should be adjusted by your dentist within 24–48 hours

Prompt denture adjustments are important. Leaving sore spots untreated can delay healing and cause significant discomfort.