Is It Safe For You to Brush Your Teeth After Tooth Extraction?
Given the abrasive nature of tooth extraction surgery, most people are weary of returning to their normal oral care routine. After all, the last thing you want is to damage the healing site. That is why most people share the same thought process, wondering, “Can I brush my teeth after tooth extraction?” “Will it hurt?” But let us tell you that you have nothing to worry about. In fact, not brushing your teeth can damage your dental health and the extraction site in a much worse way. Nevertheless, to find out the best way to tackle your oral hygiene, carry on reading this blog.
Request An Appointment
Can I Brush My Teeth After Tooth Extraction?
While taking care of your oral hygiene is extremely important, most dentists advise against brushing your teeth or rinsing your mouth after tooth extraction. That is, at least for the next 24 to 36 hours. The reason for this is your sensitive gums, which are most likely tender after the procedure.
Even if you do resume your oral care habits, make sure to use a toothbrush that has soft bristles to avoid damaging the extraction site. Also, make sure to be very careful and gentle when brushing. Do not let the toothbrush go anywhere near the tooth socket. Similarly, it is best to stay away from swishing mouthwash or even plain water in your mouth directly after tooth extraction. The force and pressure of this action could prevent a blood clot from forming or dislodge it entirely, leading to severe dental troubles down the line.
Tips to Clean Your Mouth After a Tooth Extraction
Tooth extraction aftercare is very important. There are many things you have to be careful of to not damage the extraction site. That is why when it comes to cleaning your mouth, it can be difficult to manage after an extraction surgery since bacteria can develop quickly. Mentioned below are some tips you can follow to organically clean your mouth without causing any damage or bacterial infection.
- Once the 24-hour mark has passed, you can very carefully brush your remaining teeth, as long as the toothbrush doesn’t go near the extraction site.
- Only use a toothbrush that has ultra-soft bristles.
- Skip brushing the teeth next to the tooth socket for a minimum of three days to avoid disrupting the wound.
- Do not skip the tongue. Always brush your tongue afterward.
- In the case of wisdom teeth stitches, try saltwater rinse by letting it sit in your mouth before spitting the water out. Do not swish it around.
- Consult your dentist for more details on how to keep your teeth safe and clean.
They performed an emergency extraction for me, rescuing me from extreme pain from an exposed nerve. They are professional, compassionate, comprehensive and good! Couldn’t ask for better service from an emergency dental visit!
Norman Steel
Cullen Maglothin
Elida Aponte
Waleed
Closing Words
In short, it is wise not to brush your teeth for at least 2 hours after tooth extraction. This is so that your gums can recover from the intrusive surgery. Moreover, no matter how soft the bristles of your toothbrush are, they can still scrape against the extraction site and make it worse. Thus, to avoid further complications, avoid brushing your teeth. For more information about tooth extraction and aftercare, contact LifeLine Dental of Houston at (281) 409-3777. You can also visit our clinic at 1147 Clear Lake City Blvd, Houston, TX 77062, United States.