Once your tooth extraction procedure is over, your dentist will provide you with a set of instructions to follow. For fast and safe recovery, you should ensure that the blood clot develops with no issues. So, when people ask, ‘Can I brush my teeth after tooth extraction?’ the oral surgeon will advise against it, at least for the initial days.
To learn more about brushing teeth after extraction and the proper aftercare, carry on reading this blog.
Should You Brush Your Teeth After Tooth Extraction?
If you have recently had a tooth extraction, it is best to avoid brushing the area for at least 24 hours. This is because brushing can disrupt the blood clot from its position, which affects the recovery process.
Your gums need to properly heal and close following the tooth removal. Since your tooth is removed, there will be an empty socket left behind, which needs to be closed with the help of stitches. However, the extraction site requires time to heal and form a clot. Any action that resembles suction could dislocate the clot. Moreover, aggressively rinsing the mouth and brushing teeth after tooth extraction can also lead to a dislodged blood clot.
If the blood clot does not properly develop, it can lead to a dry socket. With a dry socket comes excruciating pain, discomfort, and an opportunity for bacteria or food particles to enter the open extraction area. Therefore, you should avoid brushing your teeth after extraction for the first 24 hours to avoid dislocating the blood clot.
Tips for Brushing Teeth After Extraction
Scared to brush your teeth after tooth extraction? When you do resume brushing your teeth after tooth extraction, you can follow a few handy tips to avoid any complications. Here are some ways to make the experience more convenient:
1. Don’t Brush Right After the Procedure
Dentists recommend not brushing teeth right after tooth extraction. Therefore, it’s better to avoid brushing the same day as the treatment since the blood clot does not form right away. So, avoid brushing the extraction site or the adjacent area initially after the procedure. You can continue brushing the next day, making sure to use a gentle approach.
2. Keep the Rest of Your Mouth Clean
Even if you can’t brush the extraction site, your mouth needs to remain clean. This way, the blood clot can form without any threat of bacteria or food particles. Therefore, brush your tongue and remaining teeth to avoid additional complications and keep your mouth clean.
3. Don’t Forget Saltwater Rinses
You cannot brush your teeth right after tooth extraction, but what you can do is keep the area infection-free. Saltwater rinses can remarkably involve the healing process. However, wait a day after the tooth extraction to use saltwater rinses. Avoid spitting, though, as it can dislodge the blood clot.
4. Opt for a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
When your dentist allows you to brush, make sure you use a soft-bristled toothbrush. This way, you will not irritate your gums, and your mouth will remain clean. Soft bristles are gentle for your teeth.
5. Continue Flossing After a Week
Your dentist will tell you when to continue flossing, which is usually after a week. Flossing is essential since it removes debris and bacteria from between your teeth as well as the gum line.
The Takeaway
In short, you can brush your teeth 24 hours after tooth extraction. Make sure to follow your dentist’s instructions regarding tooth extraction aftercare. At Champions Dental, we make sure your procedures are effective and safe. Dial (281) 866-0442 to talk to us now! You may also meet our team at 13455 Cutten Rd. Suite 2g, Houston, TX 77069.
