When Can I Brush My Teeth After Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth are removed to prevent certain complications, among which impaction is the most common. When there is not enough space for the teeth to emerge out and develop properly, it is called impacted teeth. Often, it causes pain and swelling with increased chances of infection.

Other common reasons for wisdom teeth removal include crowding, difficulty cleaning, and increased potential for cyst and tumor development. 

If you are also planning to get rid of wisdom teeth and are not sure about the aftercare question, can I brush your teeth after wisdom teeth removal? The article will help tremendously.

Why Wisdom Teeth Removal Aftercare Is Essential?

The foremost reason for wisdom teeth removal aftercare is to avoid infection (1). Infection can be prevented or ceased when you maintain proper oral hygiene, which includes brushing your teeth. But how do you brush your teeth after wisdom teeth removal?

Here are some important things to keep in mind-

1. Brush gently using a brush with extra soft bristles
2. Do not brush at the site of extraction until it is completely healed 
3. Use only dentist recommended toothpaste until prescribed 
4. Use an antiseptic mouthwash to keep bacterial infection at bay
5. Stick to only liquid and soft diet for a few days 

How Can I Brush My Teeth After Wisdom Teeth Removal?

In order to maintain healthy teeth and gums, it is very important to follow the right brushing technique. It becomes necessary, especially when you have recently removed the wisdom teeth. 

The dentist recommends the following brushing technique to maintain oral hygiene-

• Brush twice daily for not more than 2 minutes
• Use toothpaste that contains fluoride 
• Brush gently in a small circular motion 
• Besides teeth, brush your tongue too
• Rinse mouth after spitting 

If you are using the same toothbrush that you used before wisdom teeth removal, it’s time to replace it. Even though it is new, there are chances that it has bacterial accumulation. Since the site of extraction becomes susceptible to bacterial infection easily, you need to start using a new toothbrush after the surgery. 

The initial healing phase is the most critical and requires more attention. 

Here, it is important to know that the recommended time for any toothbrush replacement is 3 to 4 months to prevent chances of bacterial or viral infections (2). 

Is It Necessary To Remove Wisdom Teeth?

No, it is not necessary for everyone to remove their wisdom teeth. It is removed only among those whose wisdom teeth are unbalanced to emerge out properly due to lack of space, thus getting impacted.

Since impaction results in multiple oral and dental issues, wisdom teeth among such people are advised to be removed; if you are concerned about your wisdom teeth removal, visit a dentist who will inspect your gums and teeth and provide the best care recommendations. 

In fact, some people who can’t afford this dental treatment or don’t have access to a dentist keep their wisdom teeth. Usually, a dentist will advise a person to remove wisdom teeth only when-

• It causes pain and inflammation of the gums 
• They are impacted 
• Interfering with dental treatments 
• pushing your other teeth forward, causing crowding

The dentist performs an X-ray to find out the wisdom teeth’s position in the jaw and if it is causing any issues. 

How To Take Care After Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Once the wisdom teeth are removed, taking special care according to the instructions provided by the dentist is essential. It will ensure the prevention of any future complications. Here are some common aftercare steps that you may need to follow-

• take complete rest for the day after removal 
• avoid strenuous exercise 
• do not smoke until the incisions heal
• do not drive after the wisdom teeth removal, as you will be under the influence of general anesthesia 
• consume only liquid diet for the first 24 hours 
• do not pressurize teeth or gums 
• do not use a straw for a few days before drinking anything as it can irritate excision sites
• reduce swelling by using an ice compress on the jaw 
• use pain relievers as prescribed by the dentist to combat pain 

In some cases, the doctor may prescribe over-the-counter medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or other pain relievers. However, do not take aspirin as it increases the risk of bleeding. 

You can brush your teeth after wisdom teeth removal, but make sure to avoid areas from where the teeth have been extracted. It will ensure the extraction sites are not harmed and there is no bacterial infestation in the wound. 

If there is pain and discomfort, you can skip brushing and rinse your mouth or clean the area with an antiseptic mouthwash.

Can Wisdom Teeth Removal Cause Complications?

The most common adverse effect of wisdom teeth removal is pain and discomfort. Usually, it remains for not more than one or two days after the extraction and resolves on its own (3). Taking pain relievers or over-the-counter medications can also help reduce discomfort considerably.

If the pain returns, there is a chance that the site has been infected. In such cases, you may observe symptoms like-

• discharge at the incision site
• increased swelling
• pain, soreness, or tenderness
• bad breath

In rare cases, the extraction process causes nerve damage to surrounding teeth. It can lead to temporary loss of sensation in the tongue or face. If you develop a dry socket, a condition when the site of extraction doesn’t heal, leaving the nerves and blood vessels exposed, it can cause pain that radiates toward the jaw and temples. 

Usually, it lasts for not more than a week and resolves gradually. However, if the infection develops, further treatment to curb it is required. 

How Long After Wisdom Teeth Removal Can I Brush My Teeth?

It is generally recommended to wait 24 hours before brushing your teeth after wisdom teeth removal. Be gentle and avoid the surgical sites.

Can I Use Regular Toothpaste After Wisdom Teeth Extraction?

Yes, you can use regular toothpaste after wisdom teeth removal. Choose a mild, non-alcoholic, and non-abrasive toothpaste for the first few days.

Conclusion 

If you question whether I can brush my teeth after wisdom teeth removal, the answer is plain yes; however, only after taking certain precautions. Make sure you follow all the aftercare instructions provided by the dentist and use a new toothbrush. 

Make efforts to heal the extraction site fast so that you can resume the daily routine as well as dental hygiene. Always consult a board-certified dentist for wisdom teeth removal, and in case of any complication, reach out to them immediately. 

References

1. The wisdom behind third molar extractions- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1834-7819.2009.01152.x 
2. Use & Handling of Toothbrushes- https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/infectioncontrol/faqs/toothbrush-handling.html
3. Should you have your wisdom teeth removed?- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279590/