Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to appear in the mouth. Extraction is often necessary due to impaction problems, pain, or difficulty in cleaning. Following extraction, it is essential to provide adequate care to ensure optimal healing and prevent complications. Irrigating wisdom tooth sockets (alveoli) is a recommended practice in the recovery process.
Why are irrigating wisdom tooth sockets needed?
Irrigating the wisdom tooth sockets after their extraction plays a crucial role in preventing infection and promoting faster healing. After extraction, a blood clot forms at the site where the tooth was located. This clot is vital to the healing process, as it protects the area and facilitates the formation of new tissue. However, factors such as the accumulation of food and bacteria can disturb this clot and make it difficult for it to heal properly, increasing the risk of infection.
Gentle irrigation with saline or antibacterial rinses recommended by your dentist can help remove food debris and bacteria that may accumulate at the extraction site without damaging the blood clot. For more information on what may occur if the wisdom tooth hole does not close and potential solutions, you can refer to this related article.
How to irrigate cavities?
After the extraction of the wisdom teeth, the dentist will provide detailed instructions on how to care for the extraction area. Proper irrigation is often part of these instructions. Here is a step-by-step on how to perform this irrigation:
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- Handwashing: Before performing any care in the extraction area, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly to avoid introducing germs into your mouth.
- Load the syringe: Fill a medical syringe or irrigation tool provided by your dentist with sterile saline. You can also use drinking water. The use of mouthwashes is not recommended.
- Adapt the needle: If you have a syringe with a regular needle, carefully remove the tip with scissors and bend it slightly, so you can direct the stream towards the area.
- Position the syringe: Place the tip of the needle 2 mm from the alveolus, without inserting it into the cavity or touching the clot. If you have trouble visualizing the area, help yourself with a light or a mirror.
- Irrigate gently: Then, using gentle, controlled strokes, gently rinse the extraction area to remove any remaining food and bacteria.
- Avoid vigorous rinsing: Avoid vigorous rinsing for the first 48 hours after the extraction, as this could dislodge the blood clot from its position.
Food getting stuck in the wisdom tooth extraction site can be a common issue during the recovery process. Consuming soft, non-sticky foods and liquids can help reduce the risk of particles becoming lodged in the hole, promoting a smoother healing experience. To learn more about what foods to eat and avoid after wisdom tooth removal, you can refer to this article.
Postoperative discomfort
It is common to experience some degree of discomfort after wisdom teeth extraction. However, proper irrigation can help reduce this discomfort by preventing the buildup of bacteria and food at the extraction site. If you experience severe pain, excessive swelling, or fever, you should contact your dentist, as these could be signs of a possible infection.
Wisdom teeth removal recovery often includes discomfort, swelling, and following dental advice like pain medication, hygiene, and a soft diet. Most people can return to normal activities within a week. For more details, check this article.
Frequent questions
How often should I irrigate the extraction area?
In general, it is recommended to irrigate after each meal for the first few days after extraction.
How long should I irrigate the extraction area?
Perform the irrigation up to 6 weeks after the extraction, at which time the alveolus will have closed almost completely.
Can I use commercial rinses instead of saline?
It is preferable to use saline or antibacterial rinses recommended by your dentist, as some commercial rinses may contain ingredients that could irritate the extraction area.
What should I do if it bleeds during irrigation?
If you experience light bleeding during the irrigation, don’t worry, this may be normal. Avoid spitting and control bleeding by pressing a moist gauze pad over the extraction site. If the bleeding is profuse or persists for more than 30 minutes, go to the emergency room.
Can I use any other item to remove food from inside the cavity?
Avoid introducing items into the socket where the tooth was contained, as this could remove the square and impair healing.
Can I use a WaterPik to irrigate?
The WaterPik should not be used to irrigate, as the stream of water emitted by this device comes out with too much pressure and could dislodge the clot from the socket.
Conclusion
In conclusion, proper irrigation of the wisdom tooth sockets is an important part of the healing process after their extraction. By following your dentist’s instructions and maintaining optimal oral hygiene, you can ensure a successful recovery and minimize the risk of complications. Try to seek the guidance of a dental health professional for recommendations specific to your situation.