Wisdom tooth removal is a common oral surgery that helps protect your overall dental health. However, one of the most important yet confusing parts of recovery is knowing how to brush your teeth safely after wisdom tooth surgery. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial to prevent infection, but brushing too aggressively can disrupt the healing process.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, patient comfort and care are our top priorities. This guide will help you understand when and how to resume brushing after wisdom tooth extraction while protecting your healing gums.
When Can You Start Brushing After Wisdom Tooth Surgery?
You should resume brushing your teeth the evening of your surgery, but with extra caution around the extraction sites. While the surrounding teeth still need to be kept clean, the surgical area requires a gentle approach to avoid disturbing the healing blood clots.
Why Brushing Matters After Surgery
Prevents bacterial buildup
Reduces the risk of infection
Supports a faster healing process
Keeps your mouth feeling fresh and clean during recovery
How to Brush Safely After Wisdom Tooth Removal
1. Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
Choose an extra-soft toothbrush to minimize pressure and reduce irritation near the surgical site.
2. Avoid the Surgical Area for the First 24 Hours
Gently brush the front teeth and the unaffected areas of your mouth. Avoid direct contact with the extraction sites during the first 24 hours to allow initial clot formation.
3. Start Brushing Gently Near the Extraction Site After 24 Hours
Use slow, light motions.
Do not brush directly on the surgical wound.
Carefully clean the teeth next to the extraction area while avoiding direct contact with stitches or open sockets.
4. Do Not Rinse or Spit Forcefully on Day One
Forceful spitting can dislodge the blood clot, leading to dry socket, a painful complication. Instead, let water or toothpaste foam drip naturally from your mouth.
5. Use a Saltwater Rinse (After 24 Hours)
Mix 1 tsp of salt in 1 cup of warm water.
Gently tilt your head side to side to let the rinse clean the areado not swish vigorously.
Perform this rinse 23 times a day, especially after meals.
6. Avoid Electric Toothbrushes Temporarily
Electric toothbrushes create more vibration and movement that might disturb the healing area. Stick to manual brushing for at least 7 days, or as advised by your dentist.
Flossing After Wisdom Tooth Surgery
Continue flossing the unaffected areas of your mouth.
Be cautious around the extraction site.
Once initial healing begins (after 57 days), you may gently start flossing near the surgical site if it feels comfortablebut check with your dentist first.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Brushing too aggressively near the surgical area
Using mouthwash with alcohol, which can irritate the gums
Sucking through a straw, which creates suction and risks dislodging clots
Skipping oral hygiene altogether, which increases the risk of infection
Spitting forcefully, especially in the first 48 hours
Signs Youre Brushing Correctly
Your mouth feels clean without added soreness.
The gums around the surgery site are free of excessive redness, pus, or odor.
Theres no increase in swelling or bleeding from brushing.
When to Call McLevin Dental
Contact us if you notice:
Persistent bleeding after brushing
Severe pain, especially a few days after surgery (a possible sign of dry socket)
Swelling that worsens instead of improving
Signs of infection (pus, foul smell, fever)
Loose stitches or exposed bone
Long-Term Oral Hygiene Post Surgery
As healing progresses:
You can slowly return to your normal brushing habits within 710 days, depending on healing.
Use a fluoride toothpaste to protect surrounding teeth.
Attend your post-operative check-up at McLevin Dental to ensure proper healing.
Your Smile Deserves Gentle Care
Brushing safely after wisdom tooth surgery is a key part of your recovery. With the right techniques, you can keep your mouth clean while protecting the surgical sites.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we are committed to making your recovery smooth, comfortable, and successful. If you have any concerns about your healing or how to care for your mouth after surgery, our caring dental team is just a call away.