If you’ve had a tooth extracted, whether it’s your wisdom tooth or the other, you’re probably searching when it’s okay to brush your teeth again. It’s a common question, and one that many patients ask when they go through the healing process.
Tooth extractions are a routine dental procedure for most dentists. Extraction can leave you feeling a little unsure about how to care for your mouth afterward. You want to keep your mouth clean for smooth healing but don’t want to mess it up.
Let’s understand why it’s important to be gentle with your dental care for a few days after an extraction.
What Should You Do After Your Tooth Extraction?
Why You Should Avoid Brushing For The First 24 Hours
In the first 24 hours after a tooth extraction, your mouth is in the early stages of healing. During this time a blood clot forms in the socket where the tooth was. This clot stops bleeding and starts the healing process.
If you brush your teeth this time, it can disrupt that blood clot, which can lead to complications like dry socket, a painful condition that can delay your recovery. For this reason, it’s best to avoid brushing in the area of the extraction during the first 24 hours. Instead, you can use saltwater to rinse your mouth if you need to clean it.
When Can I Start Brushing After My Tooth Extraction?
After 24 hours, you’ll generally be able to start brushing again with some precautions. Most dentists recommend that you wait at least a full day before resuming your normal brushing routine. Even then, you want to be careful.
In many cases, your dentist will tell you when it’s safe to brush after your extraction. Depending on the complexity of the extraction and your overall health, your dentist may offer specific instructions. For example, if you had a more involved procedure (like a wisdom tooth extraction), your dentist may suggest waiting longer before brushing.
How to Brush Safely After Tooth Extraction
Once you’re ready to brush again, keep in mind that you should not disturb the healing area.
1. A soft-bristled toothbrush will help you stay gentle on your teeth when you brush.
2. Don’t apply pressure around the area where the tooth was removed.
3. Brush the other areas of your mouth first to keep it clean to avoid food articles getting stuck.
Things to Avoid While Brushing After an Extraction
While it’s important to brush again after tooth extraction, there are a few things you should avoid:
Avoid brushing the extraction site directly: Even after 24 hours, try not to brush the extraction site directly. The healing process takes time, and you want to be sure that nothing interferes with the clot that is forming.
Don’t use mouthwash with alcohol: Alcohol-based mouthwashes can irritate the sensitive tissues in your mouth and slow down the healing process. Stick to a mild, non-alcoholic mouthwash or a warm saltwater rinse.
No vigorous rinsing: Just as you want to avoid brushing too harshly, you also want to avoid rinsing your mouth vigorously. This can also dislodge the blood clot, leading to complications.
Can I Use Mouthwash After Tooth Extraction?
You may try to use mouthwash instead of brushing after a tooth extraction. Generally, it’s not recommended to use mouthwash with alcohol in the first few days, as it can irritate the extraction site. After the initial healing period (about 3-4 days), you can gently use a mouthwash without alcohol.
Many patients find rinsing with warm saltwater in the first few days an excellent and natural alternative. It helps to reduce bacteria and keep your mouth clean without irritating the healing tissues.
Recover Your Extraction with Gentle Oral Hygiene
Recovering from a tooth extraction is all about being gentle with your mouth while it heals. Knowing when to brush after tooth extraction and how to do it safely will help ensure that your recovery goes smoothly.
If you’re concerned about your tooth extraction, reach out to Kelly Smile Dentistry. Contact us to schedule your appointment and get personalized advice and ensure your extraction and recovery goes as smoothly as possible.