Plenty of people enjoy a nice drink at the end of the day. However, if you just had a tooth removed by your dentist, you were probably told that you need to avoid certain foods and beverages for the time being. Are alcoholic drinks on that list? And if so, how long will it be until you can have them again? Here’s what alcohol lovers need to know before a tooth extraction procedure.
Can You Have Alcohol After a Tooth Extraction?
Unfortunately, drinking alcohol after a tooth extraction is a very bad idea. Alcohol has properties that could hinder recovery and may ultimately lead to some very painful issues.
After your tooth is removed, a blood clot will form at the extraction site. Said blood clot plays a crucial role in the healing process. However, it can take up to a week for the blood clot to fully form – and that’s where alcohol can start causing problems.
One of the side effects of drinking alcohol is that it thins the blood, making it harder for it to clot. Consequently, you will be more likely to suffer what’s known as a dry socket. Not only does this condition significantly slow down the recovery process, but it also causes quite a lot of discomfort.
How Long Will It Be Until You Can Have Alcohol Again?
If you want to avoid problems while your mouth is healing after a tooth extraction, then you need to refrain from consuming alcohol. Naturally, you’re likely wondering how long it will be until you can drink again. The exact length of time that your dentist recommends might vary, but generally speaking, it’s best to plan on staying away from alcohol for around seven to ten days. During this time, you should drink plenty of water; keeping yourself hydrated will help your mouth heal faster.
What Else Should You Do After a Tooth Extraction?
Temporarily cutting alcohol out of your diet is just one of several steps that you should follow for a smooth recovery. Here are some other tips to keep in mind:
- Don’t drink through a straw, spit, or vigorously wash your mouth. Any of these actions could dislodge your blood clot.
- Avoid crunchy or chewy foods. Your diet should consist of nutritious soft foods such as scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, and oatmeal.
- Take any pain medications you were prescribed according to the directions. If you weren’t given a prescription, over-the-counter painkillers can potentially help manage your discomfort.
By staying away from alcohol and following any other post-op instructions you were given, you can make sure that your recovery stays on track while avoiding any unnecessary complications.
About the Practice
At Complete Dental Care, our dentists deliver exceptional care to our patients by building trusting relationships with them. If you need to have a tooth extracted, you can count on our team to make sure that the process is as comfortable as possible. To schedule a consultation at Complete Dental Care in Kent, visit our website or call (253) 854-2714.