If you have recently had your wisdom teeth removed, you may be wondering how to keep the extraction sites clean and prevent infection. One of the common challenges after wisdom tooth removal is getting food stuck in the holes left by the surgery. This can cause discomfort, and inflammation, and even delay the healing process.
Food Stuck in Wisdom Tooth Hole Can’t Get It Out
Despite your best efforts, you may still get some food particles stuck in your wisdom tooth hole from time to time. This is normal and usually not a cause for concern, as long as you remove them promptly and safely. Here are some ways to get rid of food stuck in wisdom tooth holes:
Use a Warm Water Syringe or Spray Bottle
Your dentist may give you a syringe or spray bottle that you can fill with warm water or salt water and use to flush out the hole from different angles. This can help loosen and remove any food debris that is stuck in the hole.
Use an Oral Pulsating Irrigator or Water Flosser
An oral pulsating irrigator or water flosser is a device that uses pressurized water to clean your teeth and gums. You can use it to gently spray water into your wisdom tooth hole and dislodge any food particles that are stuck there.
Use a Gentle Toothbrush or Cotton Wwab
You can also use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a cotton swab dipped in warm water or salt water to gently brush or dab around the hole and remove any food residue. Be careful not to poke or scrape the wound with the toothbrush or cotton swab.
Use a Mouthwash Rinse
You can also use a gentle mouthwash rinse to help clean and disinfect your wisdom tooth hole. However, you should consult with your dentist before using any mouthwash after surgery, as some types may contain alcohol or other ingredients that can irritate or dry out the wound.
How to Avoid Getting Food Stuck in Wisdom Tooth Hole?
After your wisdom tooth removal, you will need to follow some post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. One of the most important things to do is to avoid getting food stuck in the holes where your wisdom teeth are. Here are some tips on how to do that:
- Stick with soft foods for the first few days after surgery. Examples include mashed potatoes, macaroni, soup, scrambled eggs, yogurt, and pudding. Avoid foods that are hard, crunchy, sticky, or spicy, as they can irritate the wound or get lodged in the hole.
- Try not to chew near the extraction sites until they begin to heal. Use the other side of your mouth or cut your food into small pieces.
- Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water after every meal. Saltwater is anti-inflammatory and can help soothe and disinfect the wound. To make a saltwater rinse, mix one teaspoon of table salt with eight ounces of warm water. Do not swish or spit vigorously, as this can dislodge the blood clot that is forming over the hole. Instead, let the water fall out of your mouth into the sink.
- Do not use a straw, smoke, or drink alcohol for at least 24 hours after surgery. These actions can create suction in your mouth and disturb the blood clot, leading to a painful condition called dry socket.
- Do not brush or floss near the extraction sites for at least 24 hours after surgery. After that, you can resume your oral hygiene routine, but be gentle and careful around the wound.
Conclusion
Having food trapped in wisdom tooth sockets is common after extraction surgery. Thankfully, there are many simple home remedies you can try to clear away lodged particles for relief. If self-care isn’t working, consult your dentist for assistance. With proper hygiene and care, your mouth will feel fresh again soon
