Under normal circumstances, there is nothing wrong with occasionally enjoying a glass of wine or another adult beverage. However, it is a different story for individuals who have just undergone a major dental treatment. Is it okay to drink alcohol after a tooth extraction? Learn why it is wise to wait at least 7 – 10 days before you incorporate it back into your diet.
Alcohol Can Interfere with Blood Clotting
After your tooth is removed, a blood clot should form at the extraction site. The clot’s job is to protect the empty socket and support your body’s healing process. Unfortunately, because alcohol thins the blood, it can increase bleeding after a dental procedure and possibly prevent the formation of a blood clot.
If a blood clot fails to form, you will suffer from a complication known as dry socket. It can be extremely painful and delay your recovery from your procedure.
Alcohol Can Interact with Pain Medications
It is common for dentists to prescribe pain medication following a tooth extraction. Even if you do not receive such a prescription, you will likely take over-the-counter pain relievers. Alcohol can interact with your medications, leading to dangerous side effects, such as dizziness, impaired motor function, and problems with your liver.
When Can You Start Drinking Alcohol Again?
For most people, it is safe to resume alcohol consumption 7 – 10 days following a tooth extraction. However, remember that people heal at different rates. Be patient and wait until any lingering soreness from your extraction is gone. At the very least, you should abstain from alcohol until you are no longer taking pain medication.
What Can You Drink After a Tooth Extraction?
Alcohol may be temporarily off-limits after your extraction, but there are plenty of other tasty beverages you can enjoy, including:
- Green tea. Green tea supports oral health and may even reduce bleeding after an extraction. (Make sure it is not too hot, though, because heat could irritate your extraction site)
- Coffee. An iced coffee can be refreshing and serve as an invigorating pick-me-up.
- Broth and smooth soups. Broths and soups can be a good source of protein and other nutrients during the first few days after your procedure, when you should be consuming only liquids and very soft foods.
- Cold water. Cold water can soothe oral pain and keep your body hydrated so it can heal more efficiently.
Getting a tooth removed means that you will have to say no to alcohol for at least a week. Before you know it, though, you should be recovered enough to resume enjoying your favorite beverages in moderation.
Meet the Practice
Gillis Dental is home to a talented, experienced team of oral health professionals. If you have questions about tooth extractions or what to expect while recovering from one, we would be pleased to speak with you. Contact our Needham office at 781-202-6357.