 Show If a dentist recommends having a tooth pulled, it’s somewhat of a last resort for maintaining optimal oral health. After the surgery is completed, it takes time to fully recover. To encourage expedient healing, it’s necessary to follow the dentist’s instructions and maintain healthy practices at home. With that in mind, will drinking alcohol after tooth extraction be harmful? Continue reading to find out. What All is Involved in a Tooth Extraction?A tooth extraction involves removing a tooth from its socket. Typically, extractions are performed when there is either a severe injury, damage, decay or impaction. In some cases, it may be used to create room for another orthodontic treatment. Extractions usually fall into the following two categories:
Both are surgical procedures, which means there is a chance of infection. Thus, it’s of the utmost importance to take the necessary steps to encourage healing after a tooth is pulled. Can Alcohol Interrupt the Healing Process?Whether you undergo a simple or more complex procedure, it can sometimes take a couple of weeks to fully recover from a tooth extraction. Unfortunately, drinking alcohol could prevent proper healing. In fact, it can interrupt the blood clot process, which plays an essential role in recovering from the extraction. Alcohol consumption immediately after having a tooth pulled can lead to a condition called dry socket, which can be quite painful and cause the blood clot to dislodge. How Long Should You Wait to Drink Alcohol?To be on the safe side, it’s best to wait at least 10 days after your surgery to consume an alcoholic beverage. In the meantime, water is your best friend. Drinking plenty of it will help to maintain adequate saliva production, which helps to regulate the bacteria growth inside your mouth. As another safety precaution, you should make sure that you’re done taking any pain medication before you start drinking. Therefore, you can avoid the risk of a serious health issue. When you talk to your dentist before having your tooth pulled, you’ll be given special instructions, which will likely include eating a soft-food diet for up to a week after your surgery is completed. At that time, you can also ask any other questions you may have about alcohol consumption. While tooth extractions in Waco aren’t your idea of fun, they don’t have to leave you in excruciating pain. By sticking to the guidelines you’re given, you can recover much faster. About the Author Dr. Nick Cobb earned his dental degree from the University of Texas Dental Branch-Houston. Throughout his career, he has eagerly sought the most advanced training, maintaining the highest levels of accreditation. Dr. Cobb understands that having a tooth pulled can sometimes cause anxiety, which is why he takes a careful, kind and methodical approach to providing care. He performs tooth extractions at Heart of Texas Smiles, and he can be reached for more information or to schedule a visit through his website. Posted: January 6th, 2021 Category: Getting a tooth pulled isn’t most people’s idea of a fun time. Very few people would blame you for wanting to relax with a beer after the procedure. However, if you want to have a smooth and speedy recovery, you shouldn’t go reaching for the alcohol cabinet just yet. Why is that? Keep reading as an emergency dentist in Colorado Springs explains whether it’s safe to drink alcohol after a tooth extraction. Can I Drink Alcohol After a Tooth Extraction?Unfortunately, most dentists will recommend abstaining from alcohol after you have a tooth pulled. Once a tooth is removed, a blood clot must form over the extraction site in order for your mouth to heal properly. This process can take about a week. If the blood is unable to clot, or if the clot is dislodged prematurely, you could get a painful condition called dry socket. Not only does dry socket hurt, but it also leaves the nerves and bones near the extraction site vulnerable to bacterial infection, ultimately slowing down your healing process. You may end up having to schedule more follow-up appointments with your dentist in addition to feeling pain radiate through your mouth and even the rest of your face. How Soon After a Tooth Extraction Can I Drink Alcohol?Generally, it’s best to avoid alcohol after an extraction for as long as your dentist suggests. That’s usually at least 72 hours. Just to be on the safe side, though, you may want to wait seven to 10 days for the blood clot to fully form and the extraction site to finish healing. During that time, drink water instead. It’s important to stay hydrated throughout the healing process. However, remember to NOT drink through a straw, as that could dislodge the blood clot and cause dry socket. Other Tips for a Smooth RecoveryIn addition to refraining from drinking alcohol, here are some more post-op tips for a quick and easy recover after a tooth extraction:
As tempting as it may be to unwind with a bottle of beer or a glass of wine after your tooth extraction, it’s best to avoid it. By following the steps listed above, and the aftercare guidelines provided by your dentist, your mouth will be fully healed before you know it. Then, you can celebrate with a toast to your healthy smile! About the AuthorDr. Kenneth Gasper II obtained his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry. In his 30+ years of experience as a general and emergency dentist in Colorado Springs, he has trained extensively in many areas of dentistry, including tooth extractions. He’ll make sure your procedure and recovery go swimmingly. To learn more about making a smooth recovery after a tooth extraction, you can contact his office at (719) 626-4145 or visit his website. |
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