Tooth extraction clot & brushing???

[eden]

Hi. Had back molar out Friday. How do I know when its OK to start brushing the area again? Are you just left with a hole indefinitely or does it fill in with gum?

[bednobs]

this may sound obvious, but ask the dentist?

[jno]

the gum grows over. I'd just gargle it with salt water for a few days to let it heal.

[MrXLA]

Your ok to brush your other teeth straight away and for the first few days gargle with warm salt water and/or an antispetic mouthrinse 3-4 times a day.
Just be gentle when toothbrushing in the region of the extraction.
The 'gum' will close (granulate) over the defect/socket in around 2 weeks, the bone of the socket will heal/remodel/resorb very rapidly over the first 3 months (but you won't be aware of this).

[figure]

The gum in that spot will feel less sore. As Jno says, gargle with salt water and in no time it will heal and be better.