It has been a few weeks since learning you need to have a tooth removed. As you prepare to undergo this procedure, you start to think about what recovery will be like. What foods can you eat? When can you return to work? Can you drink alcohol after tooth extraction? Although a glass of wine might sound divine after enduring such a complex form of treatment, hear from a dentist who can explain why you’re better off waiting to take a sip.
Does Alcohol Interfere with Healing After Tooth Extraction?
Yes, alcohol can spell disaster for your recovery after having a tooth removed, and here’s why:
Liquor, beer, or wine can cause a dry socket to form. Because alcohol is known to thin the blood, the clot that must form after tooth removal to ensure proper healing will be unable to do so. As a result, you will likely bleed more, and experience intense pain caused by the dry socket. Also, the risk of infection increases because the alcohol will have access to nerves in the socket.
It’s also important to consider the toll alcohol takes on your immune system. To heal effectively and swiftly, you need to make sure that you’re in the best possible health. Engaging in any behaviors that might hinder your body’s ability to heal will only make the recovery process harder and create the potential for an infection to form.
Which Foods and Beverages Are Okay to Consume?
To avoid a dry socket, infection, or additional pain, there are plenty of foods and beverages you can turn to after undergoing tooth extraction. These include:
- Water
- Green tea
- Cold coffee
- Soup
- Milk
- Broth
- Yogurt
- Mashed potatoes
- Scrambled eggs
- Bananas
- Smoothies
- Cheese
- Oatmeal
- Pureed vegetables
What Else Can You Expect After Tooth Extraction?
You’ll need to follow the instructions provided to you by your dentist after tooth extractions, as they offer helpful ways to keep your surgical area clean while allowing it to heal effectively.
Some tips to consider include keeping a good oral hygiene routine such as brushing and flossing but being mindful when nearing your vacated socket to prevent doing anything that could cause a dry socket. You can also use a cold compress to reduce any swelling and discomfort.
Rinsing your mouth gently with lukewarm saltwater is a great way to encourage faster healing and keep bad oral bacteria out of the mouth, and giving up tobacco and smoking will keep your immune system strong.
You may desire a nice glass of wine or a cold can of beer after having dental work, but if you want to avoid a prolonged recovery, stick to the recommendations of your dentist and wait to enjoy a glass of your favorite alcoholic beverage.
About the Practice
HJ Dental consists of four highly qualified dental experts who offer exceptional care and services to residents in Dallas and the surrounding areas. Bringing decades of clinical expertise to the table, they work with patients to design personalized treatment plans so that optimal results are achieved. When tooth extraction is required because of a severely damaged or decayed tooth, we promise to keep patient comfort at the forefront while ensuring swift and effective healing afterward. Visit our website or call (214) 521-3148 to find out more.