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Post-Operative Care After Extractions & Immediate Dentures

Welcome to Dentures Today's comprehensive guide for post-operative carefollowing extractions and immediate dentures. These instructions are vital for a smooth recovery and successful adaptation to your new dentures.

Following these instructions can help you heal faster and reduce the risk of complications :
  1. KEEPING DENTURES IN PLACE
    Keep your denture in place for the first 24 hours after surgery (including while sleeping), unless there is excessive bleeding or soreness. Your denture acts as a bandage to help control bleeding and limit swelling.
  2. CONTROLLING BLEEDING
    Minor bleeding can last up to 2–3 days. Biting pressure on the denture will promote clotting and decrease bleeding. Do not chew with the denture, as this can create a pumping action that can increase bleeding. Avoiding rinsing, spitting, smoking, or the use of a straw for the first 24 hours. If heavy bleeding continues, remove the denture and bite on folded gauze pads firmly for 1–2 hours.
  3. REDUCING SWELLING AND DISCOMFORT
    Reduce swelling and discomfort in the first 24 hours by applying an ice pack to the cheek over the extraction site for 10-20 minutes at a time. On the next days, apply warm compress to the site.
  4. SOFT FOOD DIET FOR COMFORTABLE HEALING
    Consume soft foods, such as soup, pudding, or mashed potatoes, during the initial days after extractions. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods that can irritate the extraction sites or dislodge the dentures.
  5. MAINTAINING ORAL HYGIENE
    Rinse your mouth with warm salt water (1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) 2-3 times a day to keep your mouth clean and promote healing. Gently brush your remaining teeth and gums with a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste, excluding the extraction sites. Use an antiseptic mouthwash as directed by your dentist.
  6. DENTURE CARE AND WEAR
    After 24 hours, or as instructed by your dentist, gently remove the denture twice a day and rinse your mouth with salt water (1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of water). Clean the denture by gently rinsing under water and using a very soft toothbrush. Replace immediately, as swelling may occur and you may not be able to reinsert the denture. After 48-72 hours, you may keep your dentures out when you sleep.

  7. PAIN MANAGEMENT
    Your dentist may prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort after the extraction. Take it as prescribed, and do not exceed the recommended dose.
  8. AVOID SMOKING
    Smoking can delay healing and increase the risk of complications. Avoid smoking or using tobacco products for at least 3 days after surgery.
  9. REST AND AVOID STRENUOUS ACTIVITY
    Rest for the remainder of the day after your extractions and avoid strenuous activity for the first few days.
  10. FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENT
    A follow-up appointment should be scheduled within 48-72 hours after your surgery. The dentist will check that the dentures fit properly, and the extraction sites are healing properly. Your dentist may need to adjust the dentures to improve their fit and your comfort.
dr. dixon working on a patient

The Importance of Post-Operative Care

Comfort

Proper post-operative care is crucial to ensure a smooth recovery after extractions and immediate dentures.

Faster healing

Following the instructions provided by your dentist can help you heal faster and reduce the risk of complications.

Avoiding complications

Neglecting post-operative care can lead to prolonged discomfort, delayed healing, and even infection.