How long to avoid alcohol after wisdom tooth extraction

About the author: Dr David Chen, DDS

​

Hello, I'm Dr Chen and I'm an actively practicing dentist in Long Island City, NY. I graduated from Columbia University College of Dental Medicine in 2016 but prior to going to dental school I was already working in the dental field. It's been more than a decade since I first got to know dentistry and let me tell you, time flies by quickly. Since then I've developed a fondness for writing, which is how this all got started!

​

Association Memberships:

• American Dental Association

• New York State Dental Association

• Queens Count Dental Society

​

​

Medical Disclaimer:

This blog is purely meant for information purposes and should not be used as medical advice. Each situation in your mouth is unique and complex. It is not possible to give advice nor diagnose any oral conditions based on text nor virtual consultations. The best thing to do is to go in person to see your dentist for an examination and consultation so that you can receive the best care possible.

​

The purpose of all of this oral health information is to encourage you to see your dentist and to inform you of what you may expect during your visit. Due to the unfortunate nature of dentistry, there isn't really any true home remedies that will get rid of dental problems. Roughly 99.99% of them require in-person intervention by a healthcare professional.

​

Hint: That is the reason why you can't eliminate seeing dentists in your life!

Summer is here, and it’s time for barbeques, dance nights, music, and alcohol! However, if you recently have had a tooth extraction, you may have to pass a few days without a chilled beer.

Oral procedures such as the placement of dental implants or wisdom teeth removals need time and care to heal completely. After a tooth extraction, you should drop certain habits from your lifestyle and items from your menu, and drinking alcohol is one of them.

Why You Shouldn’t Drink Alcohol After A Tooth Extraction

Adverse effects of anesthesia

Right after the extraction, your body will still be under anesthetic effect. Specifically, drinking alcohol can amplify dizziness. For this reason, dentists suggest personal supervision for a minimum of 24 hours after the surgery.

Alcohol can cause a dry socket

For quick and healthy recovery after a tooth extraction, your body must form a blood clot at the extraction site. If the blood clot doesn’t form or is dislodged due to any reason, you may experience a dry socket. Unfortunately, it is a painful condition that puts a brake on your healing process.

Drinking alcoholic drinks such as beer or wine after a tooth extraction can disturb the blood clot, elevating the chances of a dry socket development. This can lead to slowed recovery and other complications.

Bad combo with pain medication

Pain and discomfort are normal after a tooth removal, and your dentist may prescribe some pain medication for comfort. Unfortunately, alcohol and pain relievers (prescribed or over-the-counter) don’t go well and can even cause dizziness and liver damage. Stay away from alcohol while you heal from the surgery.

So How Long After A Wisdom Teeth Removal Can I Drink Alcohol?

If you want to stay away from troubles, avoid drinking alcohol for atleast 72 hours after having your tooth pulled. However, the longer you wait, the better.

What Other Things Should I Avoid After A Tooth Extraction?

Taking care of your mouth after an extraction is your responsibility. The following steps can help ease pain and make you feel better.

Control bleeding

Firmly biting on the gauze that your dentist placed can help control bleeding. Specifically, biting will build up pressure that assists in the formation of a blood clot. Another useful hack is biting on a teabag. The tannic acid in tea helps blood clot development and also lessens pain.

Minimize swelling

Putting an ice pack outside the removal site can help reduce swelling. Apply the ice pack for 10 minutes – on and off. Repeat for a comfortable amount of time.

Mitigate pain

Taking over-the-counter pain relievers or those prescribed by your dentist can help minimize pain and discomfort. Avoid driving while you are on medication as they may make you dizzy.

Take rest

Get enough rest and slow down your activities for a day or two after your wisdom teeth removal. Furthermore, take ample amounts of rest during the day and sleep early. Additionally, when sleeping, use an extra pillow to raise your head slightly.

Do’s

The following can help with quicker recovery.

• Eat soft, healthy foods, including fruits, veggies, and cereals.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day and other liquids such as fresh juices and milkshakes
• Keep your mouth clean by gently brushing your teeth; however, avoid allowing the bristles to touch the extraction site. Also, make sure you are not using toothpaste as it may displace the blood clot.

Don’ts

Things to avoid after extraction.

• Avoid drinking with a straw as it can break down the blood clot, giving you a dry socket.
• Don’t drink hot liquids such as tea or coffee for the first few days or the next 48 hours after your tooth removal. Hot drinks can worsen the swelling and slow down recovery.
• Don’t smoke as it can dislodge the blood clot and cause a painful condition.

Take good care of yourself, and you’ll be better in no time. By following the above steps and instructions by your dentist, you’re on the path to getting a healthy smile!

Schedule Your Appointment!

If you are concerned about any symptoms you have after your tooth extraction, such as extreme pain, vomiting, excessive bleeding, or swelling, immediately visit your dentist. No matter where you live in Texas, our dental clinics are present in multiple locations. Visit us for your emergency today!