Immediate Denture Post Op Instructions


Immediate Dentures After Extractions


You have had teeth removed and an immediate resin-based denture placed today. Proper care during the first days is very important for healing, comfort, and denture fit.

Immediately After Surgery

  • Keep your denture in place for the first 24 hours.
     Do not remove it unless instructed by your dentist.

  • Some bleeding and oozing are normal. The denture helps control bleeding and swelling.

  • Bite gently and keep pressure even.


Bleeding

  • Light bleeding or pink saliva is normal for the first 24 hours.

  • If bleeding continues:

    • Bite gently on clean gauze for 20–30 minutes.

    • Sit upright and remain calm.

  • Do not spit, rinse forcefully, or use straws for 24 hours—this can cause bleeding


Swelling & Bruising

  • Swelling is normal and usually peaks at 48–72 hours.

  • Apply an ice pack to the outside of your face:

    • 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off, for the first 24 hours.

  • Bruising may occur and will fade over time.


Pain & Medications

  • Take prescribed or recommended pain medication as directed.

  • Do not exceed the recommended dose.

  • If antibiotics were prescribed, finish the entire course.


Eating & Drinking

  • For the first few days:

    • Eat soft foods (soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes, eggs, smoothies with a spoon).

    • Avoid hot foods for the first 24 hours.

    • Avoid hard, crunchy, sticky, or chewy foods.

  • Drink plenty of fluids.

  • Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours or while taking pain medication.


Denture Care

  • Do not remove the denture for the first 24 hours unless instructed.

  • After your 24-hour follow-up:

    • Remove and clean the denture daily with a denture brush and non-abrasive denture cleanser.

    • Do not use toothpaste on the denture—it can scratch it.

    • Always handle dentures over a sink filled with water or a towel to prevent breakage.


Oral Hygiene

  • After the first 24 hours:

    • Gently rinse with warm salt water (½ teaspoon salt in a glass of water) 2–3 times daily.

  • Brush any remaining natural teeth gently.

  • Do not brush directly on extraction sites until instructed.


Sore Spots & Adjustments

  • Some discomfort or sore areas are expected.

  • Do not attempt to adjust the denture yourself.

  • Call the office if sore spots develop—adjustments are normal and expected.


Smoking & Tobacco

  • Do not smoke or use tobacco for at least 72 hours, preferably longer.

  • Smoking can delay healing and increase the risk of complications.


Follow-Up Appointments

  • A follow-up visit is very important to check healing and denture fit.

  • As swelling decreases, the denture may loosen. Relines or adjustments will be needed over time.


When to Call the Office:

  • Excessive or uncontrolled bleeding

  • Severe pain not relieved by medication

  • Increasing swelling after 3–4 days

  • Signs of infection (fever, pus, foul taste)

  • A denture that feels extremely painful or does not seat properly


Healing takes time. Be patient with yourself and your new denture.
 If you have any questions or concerns, please call our office.