After undergoing a tooth extraction, you might think that a nice glass of wine sounds good, but before you take a sip, you might want to rethink your decision. Alcohol after tooth extraction can be harmful to your recovery and potentially cause further pain. Instead of reaching for your favorite evening beverage, find out why you should wait to indulge in any kind of alcoholic drink until you’ve had time to heal.
What Kind of Impact Can Alcohol Have on Your Recovery?
Most dentists recommend that you wait at least 1-2 weeks before having any kind of alcohol after a tooth extraction. The reason is that your wounds will be exposed until a blood clot forms. This is essential to the healing process, as it can take a week or more for additional tissue to form.
When a blood clot becomes dislodged or is unable to form, a dry socket is the result, which can cause immense pain and slow down your recovery. Alcohol is one of the beverages that can make it difficult for a blood clot to form. How? It thins the blood, causing you to bleed more.
What Can You Drink Following Your Surgery?
The best option is to drink plenty of water. Not only will this keep you hydrated, but it works wonders to flush out any bad bacteria that might otherwise try to infect your extraction sites.
Also, water is great for keeping your salivary glands working, and you’ll find that you feel better as you fuel your body with the one thing it needs – plenty of water
You just need to remember that you should not use a straw to consume any beverages, as the sucking motion can dislodge the blood clot.
What Are Some Other Helpful Post-Operative Tips?
Aside from avoiding straws and staying away from alcohol for 1-2 weeks, you’ll also want to practice good oral hygiene to keep your teeth and gums healthy. You’ll just need to be careful when cleaning around your wounds so that they do not become irritated.
You’ll also want to:
- Get plenty of rest the day of your procedure as well as the following day (a full 24 hours).
- Replace the gauze as needed until a blood clot forms.
- Use a cold compress to minimize swelling and discomfort.
- Avoid using tobacco products for at least 3 days.
- Do not rinse your mouth vigorously, as this can dislodge the blood clot.
- Eat healthy, soft foods in the first few days after your procedure.
While it’s understandable that a drink might be the first thing you want the moment you come out of surgery, it’s best to wait. Feel free to celebrate the removal of these teeth once your mouth has had ample time to heal.
About the Author
Dr. L. Blaine Kennington knows that tooth extractions can be unwelcome realities for most patients, and the recovery required may cause some to desire a cigarette or drink. He and his team at Cowlitz River Dental, though, are here to urge patients to avoid these things until after the mouth has some time to heal. To avoid complications or setbacks, he can provide detailed post-operative instructions to make the process easier. Contact our office at (360) 703-9092 to find out more.