I pretty much continued to brush but didn't do the flouride treatments fio about two weeks. I used a soft baby brush. But if it's too painful even just rinsing will help a bit. It takes about 2 weeks - it could be the toothpaste too - I found the mint burned!!! For that time I used an all natural toothpaste that had a licorice flavor - lukewarm water - and a non alcoholic mouthwash which I mixed with water and tossed into a water pik. the water pick was ok on the lowest setting, plus they have a great tongue cleaning gadget. Good luck! And heal well!