Caring for your teeth after jaw surgery is important and includes brushing and rinsing with water, toothpaste, or mouthwash. Doing this prevents infections, gum disease, and cavities, and we help you learn how to brush your teeth after jaw surgery.
Be Gentle and Avoid the Surgical Site
While you may be urged to brush your teeth post-surgery to avoid bad breath and infections, this will be possible on the second day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth gently while avoiding the surgical site, as it cannot stand your brush bristles, however gentle you are.
Avoid Mouthwash Until Prescribed
After leaving the hospital, you will get a mouthwash to decrease bacteria accumulation and risk of infection. However, the antibacterial properties of the mouthwash may be harsh for your mouth post-surgery if you have exposed jaw tissues, and you should avoid it until your doctor gives you the go-ahead.
Swish Warm Water in Your Mouth
Depending on your surgery, you may be limited in opening your mouth due to the stitches or soreness. To clean your mouth, alternate mouthwash with salt water, rinse every two hours and drink enough water to flush out your mouth.
Gargling with mouthwash will be challenging if you experience a sore throat in the early stages of post-surgery. The pain from your stitches and wounds will also make it challenging to swish liquids in your mouth. You can use a syringe to target your gum line for the highest level of hygiene.
Avoid Floss If You Had a Gum Procedure
During recovery from jaw surgery, suspend flossing temporarily. You can wait a few more days for your gums to heal, after which you can resume your flossing routine.
Caring for your oral health post-surgery is mandatory but challenging, especially with the stitches and limited mouth opening. With the above guidelines, you will keep your mouth clean and minimize the risk of infection. Contact our offices for more details on oral hygiene post-surgery.
About Us • Oral Surgeon Clackamas, OR • Clackamas Implant & Oral Surgery Center Clackamas Implant & Oral Surgery Center is the office of Brett M. Sullivan, DMD, a Board-Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon. Click to learn more about us! Clackamas Implant & Oral Surgery Center - Brett Sullivan, DMD, MD, 11211 SE Sunnyside Road, Clackamas, OR 97015 : (503) 652-8080 : clackamasoralsurgery.com : 10/3/2024 : Related Phrases: about us,oral surgeon clackamas,clackamas oral surgeon
Caring for your teeth after jaw surgery is important and includes brushing and rinsing with water, toothpaste, or mouthwash. Doing this prevents infections, gum disease, and cavities, and we help you learn how to brush your teeth after jaw surgery.