How many days after wisdom tooth extraction can you brush your teeth?
Oct 16, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
In general, you can start brushing your teeth 1 to 2 days after wisdom tooth extraction. Whether you begin brushing on day 1 or day 2, be sure to carefully avoid the extraction site and clean only the other teeth. If you experience increased bleeding, worsening pain, or an unpleasant odor from the wound during this time, stop brushing and seek medical attention promptly. After brushing, avoid consuming excessively cold or hot foods, and continue following your doctor's instructions for proper wound care to promote healing.
Generally, you can start brushing your teeth 1 to 2 days after wisdom tooth extraction. The details are as follows:
If the wisdom tooth extraction was simple with a small wound, and there is no persistent bleeding or worsening swelling within 24 hours after surgery—only slight blood streaks in saliva and a stable blood clot—brushing can begin after 1 day. At this point, the wound has begun initial healing. Gently brushing while avoiding the extraction site helps maintain oral hygiene without damaging the wound. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, avoid vigorous scrubbing, and rinse your mouth slowly with warm water after brushing.
If the extraction was complex, resulting in a larger or deeper wound, and there is still minor oozing, mild swelling, or pain within 24 hours after surgery, it's recommended to wait until day 2 before starting to brush. Healing is relatively slower for complex wounds, and the blood clot may not yet be fully stabilized at 24 hours. Delaying brushing by one additional day reduces irritation to the wound and lowers the risk of infection or dislodging the blood clot. After 48 hours, if bleeding has stopped and swelling has subsided, gentle oral cleaning can begin.
Regardless of whether brushing starts on day 1 or day 2, always carefully avoid the extraction site and clean only the other teeth. If increased bleeding, worsening pain, or foul odor occurs during this period, stop brushing immediately and seek medical attention promptly. After brushing, avoid consuming excessively hot or cold foods, and continue following your dentist’s instructions for proper wound care to promote healing.
