It is safe to brush your teeth a day after surgery, although you need to take it slowly and gently. Oral hygiene is crucial after jaw surgery because it aids healing and reduces the chances of infections. Your surgeon will give oral hygiene instructions before surgery and ensure that you understand everything, as mistakes can be costly.
Stick to normal toothpaste and stay away from mouthwash unless your surgeon prescribes it. This is because the main ingredient in mouthwash is alcohol, which can irritate sensitive incision sites and cause bleeding.
Again, it is advisable to refrain from brushing your teeth in the first 24 hours after surgery. During this period, the gums will be very swollen, and there will be some bleeding. Brushing during this period is risky, as you could easily disrupt a stitch and cause more bleeding.
You will also be advised against smoking and taking alcohol, as these can irritate the mucosa and dry the mouth. Alcohol also causes dehydration, which is bad for healing.
How to Brush Teeth After Jaw Surgery
First, you need to get a soft toothbrush. We recommend using a pediatric toothbrush because these are small-sized and soft-bristled. Then, apply a small amount of toothpaste and use the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle toward the gum line. Make slow, circular motions, trying to avoid directly touching incision sites. Be gentle while opening your mouth, as rapid movement can dislodge surgical hardware, misaligning your jaws and teeth.
Take no more than 2 minutes to gently brush your teeth. In case you start bleeding while brushing, stop immediately and wait to see if the bleeding stops. If it does not, visit the nearest emergency room for assistance.
After brushing, it is advisable to rinse your mouth with warm, salty water for about a minute. A tablespoonful for an 8-ounce glass is ideal. Oral rinsing should also be done after every meal. Salt helps control the spread of bacteria and also aids in healing.
Contact Us Today
Contact us today for an assessment of your jaws and teeth. We are flexible and work closely with other service providers to ensure that you get the best services.
Young Jun DDS MD FACS, 601 E. Yorba Linda Blvd. #9, Placentia, CA 92870 ^ (657) 216-1617 ^ placentiaoralsurgery.com ^ 12/20/2024 ^ Key Phrases: dental implants Placentia CA ^
It is safe to brush your teeth a day after surgery, although you need to take it slowly and gently. Oral hygiene is crucial after jaw surgery because it aids healing and reduces the chances of infections. Your surgeon will give oral hygiene instructions before surgery and ensure that you understand everything, as mistakes can be costly.