Extractions for Immediate Dentures: The First 24 Hours

Q: When do I take the denture out, and when is my first follow-up?

You will remove the denture yourself for the first time after the initial 24-hour healing period is over. Be aware that your gums will still be very swollen, and it may be difficult to put it back in, so be prepared to re-insert it promptly after cleaning. Your first post-operative check-up and soft reline appointment will be scheduled for approximately 2 weeks after your surgery.

Q: My spit is pink. Am I bleeding too much?

No, pink-tinted saliva is completely normal for the first day. It’s a small amount of blood oozing from the extraction sites mixed with your saliva. If you experience a continuous, heavy flow of bright red blood that fills your mouth, please contact our office immediately.

Q: I feel a sharp spot under the denture. What should I do?

This is very likely a “bony spicule,” a small bone fragment that is a normal part of healing. While this is normal, these spicules can be very sharp and uncomfortable, sometimes making it difficult to wear your denture. Please do not try to endure the pain. If a spot is bothering you, call our office right away. We can have you come in for a very quick and simple appointment to smooth the area or remove the fragment, which will provide immediate relief.

Surgical Care Instructions

Pain Management

Your new denture is acting as a protective bandage over the surgical sites. Follow your prescribed pain medication schedule to stay ahead of the discomfort.

Scheduled Regimen (As Prescribed): Take 600mg of Ibuprofen and 500mg of Acetaminophen (Tylenol) together every 6 hours.
Prescription Narcotics: Use only as needed for severe pain and remember they already contain Tylenol. DO NOT take additional Tylenol with your prescription.
Disclaimer: Only take medications as specifically prescribed by our office, considering your health history.

Bleeding Control

Your denture will help control bleeding by acting like a pressure dressing.

Expect some minor oozing of blood mixed with saliva, which may tint your saliva pink or red. This is normal.
Do not spit or use a straw.
Use an old pillowcase for the first night. A small spot of blood is normal; a saturated pillow is not. If you experience heavy, continuous bleeding, please contact us immediately.

Swelling Management

Swelling is a normal part of healing and will peak on the third day.

Ice Packs (CRITICAL): For the first 24 hours ONLY, apply an ice pack to the outside of your face over the surgical areas for 20 minutes on, then 10 minutes off.
Elevation: Keep your head elevated with extra pillows when resting or sleeping to help minimize swelling.

Oral Hygiene/Site Care

Do NOT Remove Your Denture

You must leave your new denture in your mouth continuously for the first full 24 hours after surgery, including while you sleep.
If you remove the denture during this initial healing period, the swelling in your gums may prevent you from being able to put it back in.
Rinsing: You may gently rinse your mouth with a warm salt water solution, but do so with the denture in place. Do not spit vigorously.

Bony Spicules

As you heal, you may feel small, sharp bone fragments (bony spicules) working their way out of the gums. This is a normal part of the healing process as the bone remodels. Most will come out on their own. If one becomes particularly sharp or painful, we can easily remove it for you at a follow-up visit.

Dietary Recommendations

For the first 24 hours, stick to a liquid diet. Cool liquids are best. Avoid anything hot, as this can increase bleeding. Smoothies (no straw), milkshakes, and cool soups are good options.

Activity Restrictions

Rest is a critical part of healing after major oral surgery.

Avoid all strenuous physical activity, exercise, or heavy lifting for at least 3-5 days. Increased blood pressure can cause renewed bleeding at the surgical sites.
Plan on resting and taking it easy for the first few days to allow your body to heal properly.