Preparation is important before teeth are removed

The removal of one tooth or multiple teeth during a single procedure is never easy. Anesthesia is usually required to numb the extraction area so the patient is more comfortable during the procedure.

When a single tooth is removed, a patient can anticipate some bleeding, swelling and pain in and around the extraction area. Before you leave the dentist’s office, gauze will be applied to the site and the dressing should be changed if it becomes soaked. After a few hours, the bleeding should stop. If it doesn’t, call your dentist immediately. When you rest, do not lay flat. Keep your head elevated to help stop the bleeding. If the dentist has prescribed a medication, take it as directed.

The removal of multiple teeth is usually related to denture preparation. In these instances, the jawbone may be given time to heal before the denture is placed in the mouth.

Patients who have multiple teeth extracted will experience a little more bleeding, swelling and pain than the patients who have a single tooth removed. In the first 48 hours, the patient will experience the maximum swelling both inside the mouth and possibly around the eyes. The area around the eyes may become discolored. If so, the discoloration can be helped by a warm compress. The patient may suffer a sore throat because the muscles in the mouth near the extraction site will be irritated, or suffer from dry and cracked skin at the corners of the because the mouth was stretched during the surgery.

A follow-up appointment with your dentist is usually needed within 48 hours where any lingering post-surgery symptoms can be discussed.