How soon after tooth extraction can I resume normal brushing?
Mar 18, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Fu Gang
Introduction
In general, brushing your teeth is not recommended on the day of tooth extraction. Instead, you may rinse your mouth with lukewarm saline solution, tap water, or plain water to remove food debris or foreign particles from the oral cavity. Starting on the second or third day—depending on your wound’s healing progress—you may resume brushing if pain and bleeding have subsided and the wound has stabilized. When brushing, take care to avoid directly contacting the extraction site.
If you’ve had a tooth extracted, you’re likely familiar with your dentist or nurse advising you on when it’s safe to resume brushing your teeth.
Generally, on the day of extraction, brushing is not recommended. Instead, you may rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water, plain tap water, or clean water to remove food debris and other foreign particles from the oral cavity.
From the second to third day post-extraction, you may begin brushing again—provided your wound has stabilized, pain has subsided, and bleeding has ceased.
When brushing, avoid directly contacting the extraction site, as this may trigger bleeding or cause discomfort due to the open wound. As healing progresses, you can gradually resume normal brushing habits.
