Have you recently had a tooth extraction and are wondering whether it’s safe to drink? The answer is not a straightforward yes or no. The type of drink you consume and the time at which you consume it can have a significant impact on your recovery. This article will explore the different aspects of drinking after an extraction and provide you with some crucial insights to get you started on the right foot.
The first 24 hours after extraction
After a tooth extraction, it’s crucial to avoid drinking any liquids immediately. This is because the blood clot that forms in the socket to aid healing can easily be dislodged by the suction from drinking. As a result, you may end up experiencing a dry socket, which can be extremely painful. Additionally, it can delay the healing process and cause infections.
When can you drink water?
If you’re feeling dehydrated after the procedure, you can drink water. However, you must do it carefully to avoid any injury to the surgical site. It’s advisable to drink water in small sips and not use straws while drinking. The aim is to maintain your hydration levels and avoid excessive rinsing that can dislodge the blood clot from the socket.
The second day to a week after extraction
After the first 24 hours, you can start consuming other types of fluids as the clot has stabilised. It’s recommended to drink fluids which are cool, not warm or hot, to avoid pain and swelling in the affected area. Keep your hands away from your mouth and rinse your mouth with some water after drinking.
What type of fluids can you drink?
It’s best to drink fluids that are not acidic, sugary, or carbonated, as these can irritate the surgical site and cause discomfort. Examples of safe fluids include water, apple juice, cranberry juice, low-acid fruit juices, sports drinks, and milk. Avoid consuming alcohol, coffee and tea as these can delay the healing process and increase the risk of infection.
Can you drink after getting wisdom teeth pulled out?
Getting your wisdom teeth pulled out is usually an outpatient procedure that takes anywhere from 45 minutes to a few hours. After the procedure, it’s best to wait for the first 24 hours before drinking any fluids. Once the clot has stabilised, it’s advisable to drink fluids that are cool and not too thick.
How long should I wait before drinking alcohol after my wisdom teeth removal?
It’s best to avoid drinking alcohol for a few days after the procedure as it can affect your body’s ability to fight infections and can cause excessive bleeding. Alcohol can also interfere with any medication that you may be taking to help with the pain and swelling.
What can you drink to help with dry mouth after extraction?
Dry mouth after an extraction can be a common side effect. Drinking plenty of fluids can help to relieve dry mouth and prevent bad breath. It’s best to drink water, sugar-free drinks, and juices to keep your mouth moist. Avoid drinking alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated drinks as these can worsen the problem.
What type of mouthwash should I use after the extraction?
Using a mouthwash can help to keep germs away and prevent infections. It’s best to use a mouthwash that contains fluoride and is free of alcohol, as alcohol can delay healing and cause further irritation. Your dentist may recommend an antiseptic mouthwash to help with the pain and swelling.
What are the signs of infection after extraction?
An infection after an extraction can cause discomfort and delay the healing process. Watch out for any redness, swelling, or yellow discharge from the wound site, as these could indicate an infection. Additionally, if you’re experiencing pain that isn’t relieved by medication, difficulty swallowing, or have a high fever, you should visit your dentist or doctor immediately.
How can you prevent infections after an extraction?
To prevent infections after an extraction, ensure that you wash your hands before and after touching the affected area. Additionally, avoid smoking, spitting or using straws, as these can dislodge the blood clot and lead to an infection. Finally, stick to soft foods that are easy to chew and avoid hard, crunchy or spicy foods that can irritate the wound site.
When should I go back to normal drinking after extraction?
It usually takes between a week to ten days for the surgical site to heal completely after an extraction. As such, you should avoid drinking any alcohol, coffee or tea during this period. Once the site has completely healed, you can start resuming your normal drinking habits, but it’s recommended to avoid hard drinks, as these can cause discomfort in the affected area.
How can you make sure your recovery goes smoothly?
To ensure that your recovery goes smoothly, keep the surgical site clean and avoid any strenuous activity that can dislodge the clot. Resting and keeping your head elevated can help to reduce swelling and pain. Finally, follow your dentist’s instructions and take all medication as prescribed to manage pain and prevent infections.
Conclusion
Drinking after an extraction can be tricky, but with the right knowledge and approach, it can be effortless. Stick to cool, non-acidic, and non-sugar drinks, avoid alcohol, coffee, and tea, and ensure that you’re not using straws while drinking. If you’re in doubt or experiencing any pain, always reach out to your dentist or doctor for advice.
FAQs
-
Is it safe to drink after tooth extraction?
Yes, but it depends on the type of drink you consume and the time at which you consume it. -
When can I start drinking after tooth extraction?
It’s recommended to wait for the first 24 hours after the procedure before drinking any liquids. -
What type of drinks can I consume after a tooth extraction?
It’s best to consume cool, non-acidic, non-sugar drinks like water, apple juice, cranberry juice, low-acid fruit juices, sports drinks, and milk. -
Can I drink after getting my wisdom teeth pulled out?
It’s advisable to wait for the first 24 hours after the procedure before drinking any fluids. -
How long should I wait before drinking alcohol after my wisdom teeth removal?
It’s best to avoid drinking alcohol for a few days after the procedure to prevent excessive bleeding and infections.
References
- American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. (2011). Wisdom teeth management. https://www.aaoms.org/docs/govt_affairs/advocacy_white_papers/wisdom_teeth_management.pdf
- Bani Hani, A. (2012). Postoperative instructions following dental extractions: a review. Saudi J Anaesth, 6(3), 225–230. https://doi.org/10.4103/1658-354x.101212
- Watson, L. F., & Foster Page, L. A. (2018). Postextraction protocol: how to manage dental extraction patients. Journal of dental hygiene : JDH / American Dental Hygienists’ Association, 92(2), 14–21.