Can I Use Mouthwash After Tooth Extraction?

Mouthwash can help keep your mouth clean, freshen breath, and even prevent tooth decay. However, after oral surgery such as a tooth extraction, it may not be best to rinse right away. If you’ve recently had a tooth removed, you may be asking yourself if you can start swishing with mouthwash soon after. Though mouthwash can help maintain your oral hygiene, it’s important to follow your dental professional’s recommendation as to when it’s safe to start rinsing again.

When Can I Use Mouthwash After Tooth Extraction?

It is important for patients to use caution using mouthwash after any oral surgery. Some teeth are more difficult to take out than others. As a result, the healing process may vary. Typically, your dental professional will give you the go-ahead to let you know exactly when it is safe to use mouthwash after having your tooth extracted.

There are several reasons why you should wait before swishing with your favorite mouthwash after having a tooth pulled. As you wait for your gum to heal, a strong mouthwash, especially one that’s formulated with alcohol, can do more harm than good. If not healed properly, complications such as periodontal infection or dry socket can take root.

A dry socket can not only delay the healing process but can also cause additional discomfort and pain. During the healing process, a blood clot forms to help stop the bleeding at the extraction site. When that blood clot is dislodged, it leaves the underlying nerves and bone vulnerable and exposed. If rinsing too vigorously, the chances of a dry socket occurring can increase. Irritation can also occur if rinsing too soon after a tooth removal.

To be safe, it is always best to follow the instructions of your dental professional when gauging a timeline of when you can start using mouthwash after a tooth removal. To help your gum heal and prevent dry socket, there are additional actions to avoid after undergoing oral surgery:

• Brushing your teeth near the extraction site

• Using a straw when drinking

• Spitting

• Using tobacco products—especially smoking or vaping

Instead, you should focus on getting plenty of rest, eating soft cool foods, and applying a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area to help reduce the swelling.

What Kind of Mouthwash May be Recommended After Tooth Extraction?

There are different types of mouthwash that may be recommended or prescribed after an oral surgery. These tend to be antiseptic solutions and should not be used for longer than the recommended time period.

Peroxyl Mouthwash

A hydrogen peroxide mouthwash, this rinse can help cleanse the mouth to keep small oral irritations and wounds such as canker sores, from getting infected. It can also be helpful in reducing periodontal swelling and inflammation. Another mouthwash that is typically prescribed when it comes to gum health is chlorhexidine mouthwash. The germicidal mouthwash can help disinfect the mouth to better promote healing when used a few days after a tooth removal.

Oxygenating Mouthwash

Hydrogen peroxide rinses also fall under the oxygenating mouthwash category. Simply put, when used as oral solution it can help release oxygen once it comes in contact with gum tissue. This can help heal gums, eliminate harmful bacteria, and prevent plaque buildup.

Saltwater Rinse

If recommended by your dental professional, a dilution of salt and warm water can help to gently cleanse your mouth and gums after a tooth is removed. To make a saltwater rinse at home, simply mix a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water. Then, gently swish it around your mouth for a few seconds and let it pour out of your mouth – do not spit.

In addition to rinsing properly and using a mouthwash once it’s safe to do so, there are several oral care tips you can follow to help avoid complications as your gum heals after a tooth extraction:

• Follow your dentist's instructions: Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide you with detailed information on how to care for your mouth after a tooth removal. It is important to follow these medical instructions closely to ensure the best possible outcome.

• Use ice packs to reduce swelling: Applying an ice pack to the affected area for 10-20 minutes at a time can help to reduce swelling and discomfort.

• Eat soft foods: Stick to soft, cool foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies for the first few days after the procedure. Avoid hot, spicy, or acidic foods, which can irritate the socket.

• Avoid using straws: Using a straw can create suction in the mouth, which can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.

Mouthwash After Tooth Extraction FAQs

What is mouthwash?

Mouthwash is an oral rinse that is typically used to clean the mouth, teeth, and the gums. Most mouthwashes deliver fresh breath. Certain specialized oral solutions can help keep gums in good condition, remove plaque, whiten teeth, and even soothe dry mouth symptoms.

How long does it take to heal from a tooth extraction?

To avoid complications such as dry socket, your dental professional may advise that you rest and take care of your mouth for about 48 to 72 hours after the procedure. The overall healing process after a tooth extraction usually takes about 3 to 4 weeks in total.

Can I use mouthwash after wisdom tooth extraction?

You should wait at least 24 hours after a tooth extraction before using mouthwash. Afterward, depending on the recommendation provided by your dental professional, you can cleanse your mouth with a gentle saltwater solution.

When can I brush my teeth after tooth extraction?

It is usually recommended that you wait at least 24 hours after a tooth is removed before brushing and rinsing. Afterward, make sure to brush gently with the right amount of pressure and avoid getting too close to the extraction site to limit complications and irritation.

From Oral-B, the #1 toothbrush brand used by dentists worldwide.

Sources:

https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04626778

https://www.healthline.com/health/gargling-hydrogen-peroxide

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4107829/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5933829/

https://www.ouh.nhs.uk/patient-guide/leaflets/files/110812dentalextractions.pdf

https://www.dentalhealth.org/what-to-do-following-an-extraction