For the first 24 hours, do not remove your immediate denture. If it is taken out too soon, swelling may develop and make it difficult or impossible to place the denture back in comfortably. Some blood may ooze around the denture during this time, which is normal.

Your immediate denture does more than replace missing teeth. It also helps protect the surgical area and control swelling and bleeding. For it to work properly, it must stay in place.

Do not rinse your mouth during the first 24 hours. You may continue brushing your remaining teeth, but do so carefully. Please be sure to schedule your follow-up visit before leaving the office.

After extractions, avoid anything that may disturb the blood clots needed for healing. For the first 24 hours, do not:

  • Spit
  • Rinse
  • Smoke
  • Drink through a straw
  • Drink hot, carbonated or alcoholic beverages

After 24 hours, rinse three to four times per day for four to five days with warm salt water. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of table salt into an 8-ounce glass of warm water. Let the rinse leave your mouth gently instead of spitting with force.

Take all medications exactly as prescribed. Some pain and discomfort are expected after oral surgery. Pain levels can vary from person to person.

If instructed, you may take ibuprofen or acetaminophen for discomfort. Ibuprofen may be taken at 200 to 600 mg every four to six hours as needed. Do not take more than 3200 mg in 24 hours. Acetaminophen may be taken at 325 to 650 mg every four to six hours as needed. Do not take more than 3000 mg in 24 hours, including any amount found in cold medicines. Only take these medications if you are medically able to do so.

Swelling is common for up to one week after oral surgery and is often greatest two to three days after treatment. It should slowly improve over four to seven days. Apply an ice pack to the outside of your face for 15 to 20 minutes, then leave it off for 15 to 20 minutes. Repeat this during the first 24 hours, then stop using ice.

For the first few days, choose soft foods that require little or no chewing. Avoid hard or crunchy foods. Drink plenty of water, but do not follow a liquid-only diet unless instructed. Avoid strenuous activity for the first 24 to 48 hours. You may return to normal physical activity as tolerated two to three days after surgery.

Call Elrod & Dunham Dentistry at 804-417-0050 for any specific questions for our dentists in Mechanicsville, Virginia, Dr. Joseph Elrod and associates.