Wisdom teeth are the late-blooming molars that may appear when you are in your late teens or twenties. Many times, they can cause a lot of painful symptoms or become impacted, and you will require a wisdom tooth removal procedure to eliminate the discomfort.
Your dentist will instruct you on aftercare to ensure proper recovery, which might include some guidelines regarding brushing your teeth. Many patients ask: Can I brush my teeth after wisdom teeth removal? Continue reading this blog to learn all about it!
Can You Brush Your Teeth After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
To answer, the American Dental Association recommends waiting 24 hours before brushing the teeth around the extraction site.
This is because the empty socket is vulnerable after the extraction procedure, and it requires healing time. Therefore, brushing your wisdom tooth hole or the teeth around it can aggravate the site and even break the stitches.
If this happens, it can prolong healing time and even cause dry sockets.
Tips to Brush Teeth After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
When it is finally time to brush your wisdom tooth extraction site, you will need to be gentle and careful. Firstly, you should get a soft-bristled toothbrush and follow these tips for brushing your teeth after wisdom teeth removal:
- Slowly brush your teeth using circular motions.
- Opt for a non-abrasive toothpaste.
- Avoid spitting out the toothpaste, as it can risk expelling the blood clot.
- Use lukewarm salt water or a prescribed antiseptic solution and fill your mouth. Gently move your head from left to right, eventually tilting it forward and letting the liquid drain out of your mouth.
- Refrain from using an electric toothbrush, as the speed and strength might be challenging to control.
- Consult your dentist about flossing and let the water drool out of your mouth instead of spitting until you are in the clear!
- Discuss how to brush your teeth and maintain your oral hygiene after wisdom tooth removal with your dentist.
Dos and Don’ts After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Along with brushing, the dentist will instruct you on eating, sleeping, and other aspects following your wisdom tooth surgery.
You can ensure proper and fast healing if you stick to your dentist’s advice regarding wisdom teeth aftercare. Though you do not need to be on the bed 24/7, it is best to rest as much as you can for proper recovery.
When it comes to eating, make sure you stick to soft foods in the first few days, such as mashed potatoes, yogurts, etc. Do not eat chips, spicy foods, popcorn, and other hard, crispy, or crunchy food for at least a week or until your dentist says so. And eat on the other side so that the wound heals without any disturbance!
You should also avoid smoking and alcohol consumption. Also, remember not to poke the extraction site with your finger, tongue, toothpick, or anything else. The main priority is to allow proper blood clot formation, which is why you should not brush the wisdom teeth extraction hole. In addition, do not use straw as it involves suction, which can disturb the clot.
Your dentist will provide you with proper aftercare guidelines. Make sure to follow them!
Closing Note
If you are undergoing a wisdom tooth extraction, your dental specialist will provide you with the proper aftercare instructions. It includes not brushing the teeth around your wisdom tooth hole for a few days after the extraction so that it heals properly.
Your dentist might advise you to use lukewarm salt water to avoid the risk of infection and keep your extraction site clean.
At Next Care Dental, we provide a wide range of dental services to help you attain a healthy and beautiful smile. Dr. Harsh Patel and his dedicated team look forward to helping you. Dial (713) 952-0522 to get in touch with us!
