Every surgery requires some time and care to heal properly. Similarly, after a tooth extraction, you should leave or adopt certain habits for the wounds to heal quickly. The dentists often recommend avoiding certain food items such as hard to bite or sticky foods and drinks like alcohol.
To avoid complications avoid drinking alcohol for a minimum of 72 hours after tooth extraction. However, the longer you avoid, the better for you. Also, stay away from a mouthwash that contains alcohol.
Drinking alcohol can increase the chances of developing a dry socket.
When a tooth is extracted, a blood clot is formed in the area from where the tooth is removed. The blood clot covers the nerves and stops bacteria from forming. Alcohol can stop blood clot formation or can dislodge it, which can cause a dry socket. Dry socket causes severe pain and can delay the recovery period. In this case, you may have to revisit your dentist, who will extract the bacteria and cover it with dressing to help new clot formation.
To ease the pain, your dentist might recommend some painkillers. Mixing them with alcohol can have adverse effects on your health. Apart from the cavity, it can cause severe damage to your liver and brain.
Therefore, the answer to the question, can you drink alcohol after a tooth extraction is a No!
Staying hydrated is most important for a quick recovery. Drink plenty of water, milk, or clear juices for soothing effects. Also, avoid hot drinks like tea, coffee, and carbonated drinks as they may displace the blood clot.
If you are having severe pain after tooth extraction, you should immediately see a dentist, call Angleton Family Dental and Orthodontics on 979-308-4450 and book an appointment with us.
