La
Plata
What are your post-tooth-extraction plans? Do they involve lounging on the couch, relaxing with a nice tall glass of bourbon, whisky, or wine? While it’s fair to be in a celebratory mood after having a troublesome tooth removed, you might want to wait on doing it with alcohol! Consuming it the same day of your appointment isn’t a good idea for your health or comfort.
To learn more about the tooth extraction process and where alcohol fits (or doesn’t fit) in, keep reading!
The Tooth Extraction Process
Maybe you’re thinking the tooth extraction process is pretty simple. After all, your dentist will just pull it right out, and that’s all there is to it. Right?
In the case of a simple extraction, that’s more or less the case. However, a surgical extraction is a bit more involved! Patients usually require this method of removal when their tooth is trapped below their gumline. To get it out, your dentist will make a small incision in your gums, then section the tooth into pieces for safe, comfortable extraction.
Why You Shouldn’t Drink Alcohol After
No matter which type of tooth extraction you require, there will essentially be an empty hole in your gumline. This isn’t exactly ideal, as debris and harmful bacteria can become trapped in the socket and lead to infection. Fortunately, your body will form a healthy blood clot to protect the area – and this clot is precisely why you shouldn’t drink after tooth extraction!
Alcohol interferes with your body’s healing process, which could prevent a blood clot from forming properly. Another risk is dislodging or irritating the clot, causing a condition called “dry socket.” Dry socket is very painful, so it’s best to avoid it!
When Is It Safe to Drink Again?
It depends on your recovery progress. 7 to 10 days might be the average time it’s considered safe to drink alcohol again, but if your mouth heals more slowly or more quickly that might not be the case. For the sake of your oral health, be sure to check in with your dentist before trying a sip of your preferred brew! If you follow their guidance, you’ll be back to your normal routine before you know it.
About the Practice
Dr. Mark Hochman and Dr. Andrew Betaharon both became dentists because they wanted to directly improve people’s lives. They enjoy the hands-on nature of their work, and they like being able to help patients improve their oral health and smile aesthetics. If you’d like more information on promoting smooth recovery after your tooth extraction, contact Dr. Hochman and Dr. Betaharon’s office at 240-349-2439.