After getting a tooth extracted (or several teeth extracted), it’s of the utmost importance that you follow all of your dentist’s instructions. That starts with getting plenty of rest and extends to sticking to a soft foods diet. But do you really have to steer clear of alcohol after a tooth extraction? Or is that just a myth? To learn the answer, read on!
So, Can You Drink Alcohol After a Tooth Extraction?
In short, the answer is “no.” This rule may seem inconvenient at first, but it’s ultimately in place to serve you! Once your tooth is removed, a blood clot will form over the extraction site. If it doesn’t, you could end up with a condition called dry socket. In addition to being quite painful, it can delay your healing process and require additional visits to your dentist. Since consuming alcohol increases the likelihood of this occurring, it’s best to avoid it entirely for at least 10 days.
What Can You Drink After a Tooth Extraction?
During the recovery period, the best thing to drink is water. In addition to keeping you hydrated and helping you heal, it also rinses away food particles and bacteria that could otherwise result in an infection. Alcoholic beverages are certainly off the table, and even mocktails should be avoided. Though they don’t include alcohol, they are often loaded with sugar, which can irritate the extraction site and increase your chances of developing a cavity.
6 Tips for a Smooth Recovery
When it comes to a smooth recovery, avoiding alcohol goes a long way. There are, of course, other best practices you should follow as well. While your dentist will give you a specific list of guidelines, here are some general ones to keep in mind:
- Don’t spit or use a straw for at least three days after your procedure
- Get plenty of rest
- Use a cold compress or towel-wrapped ice pack to alleviate swelling
- Refrain from smoking for at least a week
- Opt for soft, nutritious foods, like yogurt, oatmeal, and scrambled eggs
- Keep your mouth clean
Refraining from alcohol may initially seem like an inconvenience, especially if you have a milestone event or celebration coming up. However, dealing with a dry socket will be significantly more troublesome, so it’ll be well worth it in the long run!
About the Practice
With Dr. Jesse Lemoine and Dr. Harith Kamil leading our team at Super Dental, you can have peace of mind knowing your smile is in the best hands at each visit. If you need to get a tooth extracted, we’ll go above and beyond to make the experience as seamless as possible. That’s why we utilize a putty-free impression system, happily accept dental insurance, and offer convenient hours! If you want to learn more about the recovery process or you want to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to contact our team via our website or by phone at (978) 342-8500.