After Tooth Extractions & Immediate Denture Placement

Post-Operative Care Instructions

Please follow these instructions carefully to help your mouth heal properly and to stay comfortable after your procedure.

1. Bleeding Control

  • Bite firmly on the gauze for 30–60 minutes.
  • Light oozing is normal for the first 24 hours.
  • If bleeding continues, place new, slightly damp gauze and bite for another 30 minutes.
  • Do NOT spit, rinse, or use a straw for 24 hours — this can restart bleeding.

2. Your Immediate Denture

  • Do NOT remove your denture for the first 24 hours, even if it feels tight. This helps control swelling and bleeding.
  • You will return to the office the next day (or as scheduled) for a check and adjustment.
  • After 24 hours:
    • Remove the denture and gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water (½ teaspoon salt in 8 oz warm water) several times a day, especially after eating.
    • Clean your denture daily using a soft brush and mild soap or denture cleanser. Do not use toothpaste.
    • When the denture is out, keep it in water or denture solution to prevent warping.

3. Pain & Discomfort

  • Take prescribed or recommended pain medication as directed.
  • For best comfort, start medication before the numbness wears off.
  • Avoid aspirin unless your dentist specifically tells you to take it (it may increase bleeding).

4. Swelling & Bruising

  • Apply an ice pack to the outside of your face for the first 24 hours (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off).
  • Swelling usually peaks 2–3 days after surgery.
  • After 24 hours, you may switch to warm compresses if needed.

5. Eating & Drinking

For the first 24 hours, choose soft, cool foods such as:

  • Yogurt
  • Smoothies (no straws)
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Scrambled eggs
  • Avoid hot, spicy, hard, or crunchy foods.
  • Drink plenty of fluids, but do not use straws.
  • Chew slowly and gently.

6. Mouth Care

  • Do not rinse or brush the surgical areas for the first 24 hours.
  • After 24 hours:
    • Gently brush any remaining teeth.
    • Continue warm salt-water rinses 3–5 times per day.

7. Follow-Up Visits

  • 24-hour visit: Denture check and sore-spot adjustment
  • 1-week visit: Healing review and additional adjustments
  • A temporary soft reline may be needed as healing progresses.
  • A permanent reline or new denture is usually needed after 3–6 months.

Call the Office Immediately If You Experience:

  • Bleeding that does not stop after 2 hours of firm pressure
  • Pain or swelling that worsens after 3 days
  • Fever over 101°F (38°C)
  • Painful sore spots caused by your denture