Postoperative Instructions Following Immediate Denture Insertion

1. Do not remove the denture until the morning following the surgery. This will prevent the extraction sites from swelling.

2. Do not rinse today. Avoid extremely hot foods or liquids.

3. Remove the denture the morning following surgery and brush the inside and outside teeth as usual, but do not attempt to brush near the treated area. You may gently swab the area with a cotton tip applicator moistened in Listerine. Re-insert the denture immediately after cleaning.

4. Some swelling may occur during the first two days. For today, apply an ice pack to the outside of the face, ten minutes on, ten minutes off, as often as possible. Do not use ice after the first twenty-four hours.

5. Ordinarily, slight oozing may be noticed around the surgical site, do not be alarmed. Do not try to stop the bleeding by rinsing. Apply pressure with gauze or a wet tea bag. If the bleeding does not stop, call the office.

6. You were given a prescription for pain medication, and possibly an antibiotic. Severe swelling, difficulty in breathing, or appearance of a rash indicate an allergic response to the medication. Discontinue use at once and immediately seek medical attention.

7. Please refrain from smoking during the post-operative period. Avoid alcoholic beverages during this time, especially if you take medication.

8. The denture is not to be worn at night while sleeping except for the first night following surgery.

9. The denture should be cleaned twice daily with toothpaste and left to soak in water at night.

10. Until you return for post-operative care, eat softer than normal foods. Do all chewing on the untreated side of your mouth if applicable. Avoid foods that are hard, sharp, spicy, or very hot.

11. Please call the office if you have any questions.