Can I use mouthwash after tooth extraction?

Under normal circumstances, it is not recommended to use mouthwash within 24 hours after tooth extraction. After 24 hours, a mild mouthwash may be cautiously selected based on individual circumstances.

It is not recommended to use mouthwash within 24 hours after tooth extraction. Following extraction, a blood clot forms within the alveolar socket, which is the first crucial step in wound healing. Using mouthwash too early, especially products containing irritating ingredients such as alcohol, may dissolve or dislodge this protective blood clot, leading to complications such as dry socket. Dry socket mainly manifests as severe pain and delayed wound healing. Rinsing too soon may also disrupt the normal blood clotting process at the extraction site, increasing the risk of infection.

After 24 hours post-extraction, if using mouthwash, it is recommended to choose alcohol-free, mild formulations, such as normal saline, Xinyan Kangfu Solution (recombinant peptide solution), or compound chlorhexidine mouthwash. These mouthwashes can help maintain oral hygiene, reduce bacterial growth, and promote wound healing. When rinsing, do so gently without forceful swishing. Hold the mouthwash in the mouth and swish gently by puffing the cheeks and lips to allow the solution to fully contact the oral mucosa and teeth. Each rinse should last approximately 30 seconds before spitting it out.

For special populations, such as patients with diabetes, smokers, or individuals with compromised immune systems, extra caution should be exercised regarding the timing of mouthwash use. These individuals generally have impaired wound healing capacity. It is recommended to delay using mouthwash until 48 hours post-extraction, and to use only antimicrobial yet less-irritating medical-grade mouthwashes under a physician's guidance.