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Can I Brush My Teeth After Tooth Extraction?
Posted on November 3rd, 2022
After tooth extraction, you may wonder if you can brush your teeth right away. The answer to this question will depend on the specifics of your procedure as well as your after-care instructions.
While you should always follow your dentist’s instructions, we’ve put together this blog to help you understand what to expect after a tooth extraction.
What to Expect After Tooth Extraction
When you have a tooth extracted, there will be a hole left where the tooth was. That is called an extraction socket. A blood clot will form in this socket help prevent bleeding and aid the healing process.
It is important not to disrupt this blood clot as it can result in a dry socket. In short, a dry socket is a painful condition that can delay healing.
Your dentist will give you specific instructions on how to take care of your mouth after an extraction. Here are some of the universal rules most dentists follow.
Can You Brush Your Teeth After a Tooth Extraction?
So, can you brush your teeth after an extraction? The answer is maybe.
If the dentist has given you the okay to brush your teeth, then you can go ahead and do so gently. Do not use toothpaste as this can be too abrasive and disrupt the blood clot. It is best to just use water.
If the dentist has not said it is okay to brush your teeth, then it is best to wait until the blood clot has formed. Once the blood clot has appeared, you can start brushing your teeth gently with water only.
You should avoid using toothpaste until the extraction site has healed completely.
Taking care of your mouth after a tooth extraction and following your dentist’s instructions is essential. Doing so will help to ensure a quick and easy recovery.
Instructions After Tooth Extraction
After tooth extraction, there are some things you need to do to promote healing and avoid complications. It is essential to do the following:
1. Rinse Your Mouth With Warm Salt Water 3 Times a Day
Salt water helps cleanse the area around the extraction site. It acts as an antiseptic to help kill any bacteria that may be present. It’s essential to use warm salt water, as hot water can cause more irritation.
To make a saltwater solution, dissolve one teaspoon of salt in a warm cup of water and swish it around your mouth for several minutes. Then, spit it out and repeat this process three times a day until the extraction site has healed completely.
2. Eat Soft Foods and Avoid Drinking Through a Straw
After tooth extraction, it’s important to eat soft foods and avoid drinking through a straw. Doing this will help promote healing and prevent further damage to the area. Good soft food options include:
- Jello
- Ice cream
- Applesauce
- Soup
- Mashed potatoes
Drinking through a straw can dislodge the clot that forms in the extraction site, which can lead to further bleeding and delay healing. If you must drink something other than water, try using a cup with a lid to avoid contact with the extraction site.
3. Take Pain Medication as Needed
After your tooth extraction, you will likely experience some pain and discomfort. That is normal and to be expected.
Your dentist or oral surgeon will likely prescribe pain medication you can take as needed. Follow their instructions carefully and only take the medication as directed.
4. Keep the Extraction Site Clean With Gauze
After you have your tooth extracted, it’s vital to keep the extraction site clean. This will help prevent infection and promote healing.
You can use gauze to clean the area around the extraction site. Be sure to change your gauze regularly.
You may also need to use an antibacterial mouthwash or rinse. Talk to your dentist about the best way to clean your extraction site.
5. Avoid Smoking
Smoking is never a good idea, but it is imperative to avoid it after having a tooth extracted. Smoking can delay healing and increase your risk of developing an infection. If you smoke, try to abstain from smoking for at least 24 hours after your tooth extraction.
6. Get Plenty of Rest
After having a tooth extracted, it is important to get plenty of rest. Your body needs time to heal and recover. So try to avoid strenuous activity and get plenty of sleep. Doing this will help your body to heal more quickly.
7. Use Ice Packs as Needed
If you experience swelling after tooth extraction, ice packs can help reduce the swelling. Apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek for 20 minutes at a time. Do this every few hours as needed.
8. Follow Up With Your Dentist
After tooth extraction, you must follow up with your dentist as scheduled. This is important to make sure that the extraction site is healing properly. Be sure to keep all your appointments and call your dentist if you have any questions or concerns.
Speak to a Dentist About Tooth Extraction Aftercare
If you have questions about caring for your teeth after a tooth extraction, contact Windy City Family Dental. Our experienced and skilled team of dentists will provide you with the best oral care and treatment you need to ensure a successful recovery. We’re the most trusted choice for tooth extraction in Chicago.
Contact us at 312-236-8065 to schedule an appointment!
