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What to Know Before Having Multiple Teeth Extracted
Jan 19, 2023
Can I Have Multiple Teeth Extracted?
Having multiple teeth extracted at one time may also be the best treatment option for a patient. In cases where a patient has experienced an injury, an advanced infection, or even problematic wisdom teeth, having multiple teeth removed can be a protective strategy for a patient. In some cases, advanced gum disease can also compromise teeth and require partials or dentures to restore the function of your mouth.
While we always try to help patients keep their natural teeth whenever possible, these cases simply call for multiple extractions at one time in order to best restore a patient’s oral health and lead to the best outcome.
In this dental news article, we discuss what you need to know before having multiple extraction procedures and how to properly care for your mouth afterward.
What to Know About the Procedure
- Arrange for a friend or family member to drive you to and from your appointment. An extraction procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can be back in the comfort of your own home the same day. However, because sedation is used for these procedures so you’ll want to arrange for someone to drive you to and from your appointment. It is also a good idea to have someone at home who can help for a few days following the procedure.
- Let your dentist know before surgery if you are taking any anticoagulants. This type of medication works as a blood thinner and can keep your blood from clotting. Be aware that this also includes baby Aspirin, which many people do not realize is a medicine. Do not take any Aspirin or baby Aspirin for 3 days prior to any extraction unless indicated differently by your doctor.
- Have sterile gauze on hand. Before your procedure, it is a good idea to buy some sterile gauze to have at your home. It is not uncommon for the incisions to weep blood for the first few days. Applying a folded piece of sterile gauze in your mouth and lightly biting down is the best way to absorb any blood. Another great way to reduce bleeding is with a caffeinated tea bag. Simply, wet the tea bag, place it on the extraction site, and gently apply pressure. Eventually, you can rinse your mouth gently with lukewarm salt water which will help wash away any residual blood and keep the incisions clean.
- Be prepared to put your feet up for at least 48 hours and not engage in any physical activity following an extraction.
- Stay hydrated. Be sure to drink plenty of water following your procedure. You should avoid hot or cold drinks, as well as alcohol and carbonated beverages. Room temperature water is your best bet! You should also avoid drinking through a straw as the suction could potentially dislodge any blood clots that occurred at the incision site.
- Eat a soft foods diet. For your comfort, you’ll want to stick to soft foods until the incisions are completely healed. Before your procedure, stock up on soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and applesauce. Protein is wonderful at helping the soft tissue in your mouth heal, so look for a few blender recipes that can help you get plenty of protein in as well.
- Don’t drive or operate machinery. Your dentist will prescribe prescription pain killers or anti-inflammatory medication to help you with pain medication following the procedure. Because of this, you may feel groggy and should not drive or operate machinery until the medication is completely out of your system.
- Place a towel over your pillow case before going to bed. It is a good idea to cover your pillow case before going to bed to avoid any blood getting on your pillow case. In most cases, it is mostly saliva with a tinge of blood but can still stain a pillow case. It is also very helpful to use ice 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off until you go to bed. This will help keep bleeding at a minimum.
- Avoid tobacco use. This can interfere with wound healing and recovery. If you use tobacco, it is wise to seek out a tobacco cessation program before your procedure.
If you have further questions about teeth extractions, give Midlothian Dental Arts a call at (804) 379-9177. We are happy to answer any questions or address any concerns you have about this procedure.
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