Do you have a tooth extraction coming up? This isn’t anyone’s favorite activity, but it is sometimes necessary in order to maintain the health of your smile by preventing further dental problems. It may seem fitting to celebrate undergoing your procedure with a drink, but this isn’t something that you should do right away. Continue reading to learn how long you should wait after a tooth extraction for your night out to the bars, as well as some other tips to heal smoothly.
Why Shouldn’t You Drink Alcoholic Beverages After a Tooth Extraction?
After you have a tooth removed, a blood clot must form in the extraction area until granulation tissue forms. This can take a week or more. If the blood isn’t able to clot, you could develop a painful condition called “dry socket.” This condition slows your recovery process and can cause you to need several more follow-up visits with your dentist. Ultimately, it is a good idea to avoid anything that could interfere with healing, including consuming alcohol.
How Long Do You Need to Wait Before You Can Have a Drink?
It is always best to avoid alcohol after getting a tooth pulled for as long as your dentist recommends. The safest bet is to wait at least 7 to 10 days while the wound heals. Drink plenty of water instead, as staying hydrated is crucial in the healing process.
You should also be considering all of the medications that you are taking for pain before consuming alcohol. Taking certain over-the-counter and/or prescribed medications in addition to drinking alcohol can be dangerous and cause adverse effects. Ideally, you should wait until you no longer require pain medications before resuming alcohol use.
7 Post-Operative Tips
Here are some other steps that you should take to help your recovery go quickly and smoothly:
- Rest for at least 24 hours after the extraction.
- Ice can be used to reduce swelling
- Don’t use straws for 24 hours and avoid spitting
- Avoid rinsing your mouth vigorously so you don’t dislodge your blood clot
- Refrain for smoking for at least three days after your procedure
- Stick to soft foods to promote healing
- Leave the gauze your dentist placed in your mouth for several hours to allow the blood clot to form. Then change as needed.
As much as you want to wind down the day of your extraction with an adult beverage, it is best to wait. This way, you will be healed up and back to your busy schedule in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Christine Root is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for over three decades. She earned her dental doctorate from the Indiana University School of Dentistry and completed an internship in implantology and orthodontics. Currently, she is a proud member of the American Dental Association, Indiana Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, and International Congress of Implantologists. For more information on tooth extractions or to schedule an appointment at her office in Marion, visit her website or call (765) 613-3128.
