When Can I Drink Soda After Tooth Extraction
Can I drink soda after tooth extraction?
The short answer is that you should avoid drinking soda for at least 24hrs and if possible 48 hours after the tooth extraction procedure was completed.
This is a common question that patients have after getting a tooth extraction procedure done in our office in 6434 HWY 6 N, Houston TX. A party coming up soon and you need to have a tooth pulled, will I be able to drink soda or alcohol after the tooth extraction procedure? Being mindful of your diet and oral hygiene after having a tooth extraction be it simple or surgical tooth extraction is very important because the extraction site will be sensitive and swollen for a few days, and consuming certain foods and drinks can prolong healing and increase the risk of infection.
Why you should not drink soda after tooth extraction.
After a tooth extraction, it is important to avoid drinking soda for several reasons. Here is what happens if you drink soda after a tooth extraction procedure.
- First, soda can be a source of sugar and acid, which can irritate the extraction site and delay healing. The sugar in soda can also promote the growth of bacteria in the mouth, increasing the risk of infection.
- Second, the carbonation in soda can cause more swelling and discomfort in the extraction area. The carbonation can also increase blood flow to the extraction site, which can prolong bleeding and delay healing.
- Third, drinking soda too soon after an extraction can cause dry socket, a serious complication that occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged or dissolves. Symptoms of dry socket include severe pain, swelling, and bad breath. If you experience any of these symptoms after drinking soda or any other food or drink, contact us immediately for a post op. There will not be a charge for follow up visit at Keem smile dentistry.
Fourth reason to not drink soda after having the teeth out is because maintaining your oral hygiene routine after the procedure is more difficult due to the pain and discomfort. This means that you’re not brushing and flossing as well in the first few days after the procedure and if you’re drinking a lot of sugary sodas, the chances for you to get a cavity will significantly increase. Drinking a lot of soda during the healing process may warrant additional dental visits once you’ve healed because you may need the cavities filled.
Lastly, soda is known to be high in sugar, artificial sweeteners and caffeine, which can lead to tooth decay, diabetes and other health issues. It is recommended to stick to water and other healthier beverages, such as milk or herbal tea, to promote healing and maintain good oral health.
What does soda do to your teeth
Drinking soda can be detrimental to your oral health as it bathes the teeth in sugar, which can feed the bacteria in your mouth. These bacteria can produce acid that can erode the tooth’s enamel, (the thin outer layer that protects the tooth) and hence reduce the surface hardness of the enamel. Once the surface hardness of the Enamel has being eroded, this allows the bacteria to get into the inner part of your tooth and cause cavities. Cavities as we know them comes with all forms of problems if not taken care in a timely manner.
What should be noted however is the fact that cleaning your teeth regularly and quickly after drinking soda will go a long way in preventing the acid from eroding your enamel. Drink it quickly and rinse them off your teeth as soon as possible.
What to drink instead of soda after tooth extraction
After a getting a tooth pulled, we usually recommend that our patients avoid drinks that can irritate the extraction site, promote bleeding, or interfere with healing in any way. Some alternative options to drinking soda include:
Water: Water is the best choice for staying hydrated after an extraction. It is also essential for rinsing your mouth and keeping the extraction site clean.
Milk: Milk can help to soothe the extraction site and provide your body with the calcium it needs to heal.
Tea: Herbal teas such as chamomile and green tea are a good alternative to soda. They are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help to reduce swelling and promote healing.
Juice: Freshly squeezed juice is a healthier alternative to soda. Avoid fruit juices that are high in acid content like orange or pineapple.
It is important to avoid straws when consuming any liquids, as the sucking motion can cause more bleeding and swelling, and also avoid hot liquids as they can cause the blood vessels to dilate and increase bleeding.
You can drink soda 3 days after your tooth extraction procedure.
It is recommended to stick to water and other healthier beverages, such as milk or herbal tea, to promote healing and maintain good oral health but 3 days after your tooth extraction procedure was completed is typically a safe time to start to drink soda again. After the initial 24-48 hours has passed, the healing process is well under way and the risk of complications such as dry socket is minimized. However, it is important to consume it in moderation, and avoid drinking soda through a straw, as the sucking motion can cause more bleeding and swelling. Instead, sip it slowly and allow it to mix with your saliva before swallowing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, in the first 48 hours after tooth extraction, avoid:
- Carbonated beverages / Soft drinks
- Spicy Foods and drinks
- Hot Foods and drinks
- Foods that are difficult to chew. Stick to foods that can easily be swallowed.
- Acidic drinks
- Follow the tooth extraction post op instructions.