The after-effects of a tooth extraction can be moderately unpleasant. You may have been sedated and feel unwell and light-headed as a result of this. You will almost certainly have a swollen and painful mouth, and this could last for days or even weeks after your extraction.

Wisdom teeth are by far the most commonly extracted teeth. This is because they are the last teeth to erupt, coming through right at the back of the jaw. Often, by the time that wisdom teeth start to erupt, there is little or no room in the back of the gums. This can mean that teeth some through crooked, or alternatively, they may get stuck and not fully erupt at all. Damaged soft tissue in the gum is prone to developing other issues such as recurrent infection, which can be very painful and debilitating.
 

If this happens, and you suffer regularly with problems with your wisdom teeth, our dentist may recommend that you have them extracted. This is a fairly common procedure in which the back teeth are removed by loosening them from the socket, or occasionally, an incision in the gum is needed.

After your extraction, you will be given specific instructions for the best way to promote healing and keep your mouth clean. One of the questions that many patients have is about using mouthwash in the days following their procedure.
 

What is Mouthwash?

Mouthwash is an extremely common dental product that can support both the health and appearance of our teeth. There are many different types of mouthwash, but most contain antiseptics which can help clean your mouth by flushing out food debris and bacteria that causes plaque acids and tooth decay. However, it is important to note that mouthwash should be viewed as an addition to daily brushing and flossing and not as a replacement. This is because mouthwash cannot replicate the same degree of cleanliness as either of these options when used as a standalone measure.
 

Can I Use Mouthwash after My Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Most mouthwashes are antiseptic, which make them very useful for eliminating bacteria, particularly after a procedure that has left a wound like a tooth extraction. However, this does not automatically make them safe to use after you have had a tooth removed. Immediately after your extraction, a blood clot will start to form over the affected part of your gum. This is very important as the gums are rich in blood cells and can bleed significantly. If you dislodge the clot, such as by brushing or rinsing the affected area, then bleeding could recommence.

Although it may take several weeks for your gum to fully heal, most dentists recommend that you refrain from rinsing your mouth with anything for a minimum of 48 hours after your extraction. After this point, you should ideally rinse with only a warm water and salt solution four times a day until the healing process is complete.

Although there are no ingredients that could harm you in manufactured mouthwashes, it is important to bear in mind that they do contain alcohol. This could sting when used on the affected area, and could also cause the development of dry socket, a painful condition that is a common side effect of extractions. For these reasons, we would recommend that you wait until your gum is fully healed before you consider using an alcohol-based mouthwash.
 

If you are scheduled for a wisdom tooth extraction, our dentist will speak to you about the best way to care for your mouth and gums in the days after your procedure. However, if you still have any questions or concerns, be sure to contact us and speak to our dental team.