Salt Water Rinses Can Keep You From Getting a Postoperative Infection
Posted on 9/21/2021 by Ankur Johri
Now that you're done with your procedure, it's time to start the healing process. Depending on the procedure, our professionals might have told you to start a habit of rinsing your mouth with salt water to help your recovery. This is because, after an operation, you are vulnerable to an infection around the affected area. This risk is most prevalent before the wound heals and seals itself. Therefore, after your procedure, we recommend you dissolve half a teaspoon in a glass of water and use it to rinse your mouth after every meal (as frequently as you can). Warm or slightly hot water is preferable to cold water. You might be wondering about the importance of saltwater. Here is an explanation of how saltwater works and other benefits it can provide for you when rinsing your teeth.
How Salt Water Works
Humans have used salt water to treat infections for centuries now. Early records show Egyptians, as far as the year 1600 BCE, were using salt to treat infections and treat wounds. Saltwater works by changing the acid-alkaline balance in your mouth temporarily. This balance is also called the PH balance.
Bacteria have a difficult time surviving in an alkaline environment as compared to acidic environments. Therefore, salts will temporarily make your mouth more alkaline than before, making it easier to kill any existing bacteria. Saltwater will not irritate your gum tissues and mucous membranes like some brands of mouthwash do. It also helps wash away debris from your teeth, preventing the buildup of plaque and tartar, which may lead to reinfection.
Fast Track Your Healing Process
Your chances of getting your smile back just got better now that you decided to have your dental issues sorted. However, the procedure is only half the job done. The healing process is the other half. To fast-track, your healing process, be sure to keep your teeth clean and free from any food particles after every meal. Saltwater is sure to make the process faster and easier for you. Don't hesitate to contact us for any other information regarding your dental health.
Dental Blog | Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery | Allentown, PA Check out the dental blog that Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Allentown, PA put together to educate our patients. Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 1251 S Cedar Crest Blvd #311, Allentown, PA 18103 ^ (610) 435-6161 ^ lehighoms.com ^ 3/17/2025 ^ Related Terms: oral surgeon Allentown PA ^
Now that you're done with your procedure, it's time to start the healing process. Depending on the procedure, our professionals might have told you to start a habit of rinsing your mouth with salt water to help your recovery. This is because, after an operation, you are vulnerable to an infection around the affected area. This risk is most prevalent before the wound heals and seals itself. Therefore, after your procedure, we recommend you dissolve half a teaspoon in a glass of water and use it to rinse your mouth after every meal (as frequently as you can). Warm or slightly hot water is preferable to cold water.