Wisdom teeth, or the backmost molars, erupt much later in life than other molars. Most often, patients experience wisdom tooth eruption in their teens or early twenties.
But the reality is that these teeth are not beneficial for modern humans. Many times, wisdom teeth can negatively affect dental health. Since they come in after other adult teeth are set (and often after orthodontic work like braces), wisdom teeth can disrupt your smile in many ways. Oftentimes, people struggle with misalignment problems, tooth decay, pain, and overcrowding when their wisdom teeth come.
To avoid these problems and preserve oral health, many dentists recommend a wisdom tooth extraction. That’s why the majority of people have their wisdom teeth extracted.
Following the tooth extraction, you may experience some pain and swelling. So, when can you brush your teeth after wisdom tooth extraction?
Brushing teeth after wisdom tooth removal is actually important for recovery. Here’s what you need to know.
When to Brush Teeth After Wisdom Tooth Procedure
Tenderness, pain, soreness, and discomfort are common after wisdom tooth removal. When the dentist removes impacted teeth (those that have not yet erupted), the recovery can be even more uncomfortable. The swelling and pain may make you afraid to brush your teeth.
But brushing your teeth is vital for healing and recovery! On the same day as your wisdom tooth surgery, you should brush the front teeth and avoid the extraction site. Then, the next day after surgery, brush all your teeth.
How to Safely Brush Teeth After Wisdom Tooth Removal
You should brush your teeth normally the day after your wisdom tooth surgery. This keeps your mouth clean and helps the extraction heal. It’s important for avoiding infection and keeping your smile healthy.
Of course, you should exercise caution when brushing for the first few weeks.
- Choose mild toothpaste that won’t irritate your extraction area.
- Brush gently near your extraction.
- Use a soft toothbrush.
- After eating, rinse your mouth with warm salt water to remove particles.
Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Ottawa, ON
Keeping your mouth clean after wisdom tooth extraction helps it heal properly, which is why brushing is so important. Understanding when and how to brush your teeth following the extraction is critical.
If you think you may need wisdom tooth removal or want to learn more about the procedure, Bells Corners Dental Studio is here to help! Visit our dental clinic in Ottawa for a dental assessment, where we can help you determine if a wisdom tooth extraction is right for you.
Schedule a consultation for wisdom teeth removal in Ottawa today!
