Good oral hygiene supports wound healing and helps reduce the risk of inflammation after a tooth extraction or another surgical dental procedure.
Cleaning your teeth
Brush your teeth as usual, but be gentle near the wound and any stitches. Do not touch the wound with your toothbrush, fingers or tongue, and do not try to remove the blood clot. The clot protects the wound and is an important part of normal healing.
Rinsing your mouth
Do not rinse vigorously on the day of the procedure, as this may dislodge the blood clot and cause bleeding. During the following days, follow the instructions given by your dentist. Use only the mouthwash recommended by your clinician. If appropriate, your dentist may recommend a chlorhexidine mouthwash, such as Corsodyl or an Oral-B product. Use it only for the recommended period and follow the clinician’s or package instructions.
What should you avoid while healing?
- Do not smoke or use nicotine products, as they can slow healing.
- Avoid touching the wound, forceful spitting and vigorous rinsing.
- Do not use sharp objects or an oral irrigator around the wound.
When should you contact the clinic?
Contact your dentist if pain or swelling increases after the first few days, or if you develop a fever, an unpleasant taste or smell, pus, or persistent bleeding. Seek urgent medical help immediately if you have difficulty breathing or swallowing.
Important: this is general guidance. If your treating dentist gave you different instructions, always follow their advice.
