smoking, Vaping & drinking after a tooth extraction

Why You Shouldn’t Smoke or Drink After a Tooth Extraction

Having a tooth removed — whether it’s a wisdom tooth extraction or another oral surgery — is a common procedure. But your recovery depends heavily on what you do afterwards. Two of the biggest risk factors for delayed healing and post-operative pain are smoking and drinking alcohol.

Below, we explain why avoiding both in the days after a tooth extraction is so important — and how doing so helps you heal faster and avoid complications.

Smoking or Vaping Greatly Increases the Risk of “Dry Socket”

After a tooth is removed, a blood clot forms naturally inside the socket. This clot protects the bone and nerve endings underneath while new tissue begins to grow.

When you smoke:

• The suction created when inhaling can dislodge the clot, leaving the socket exposed — a painful condition called dry socket.

• Nicotine constricts blood vessels, reducing oxygen delivery and slowing healing.

• Toxins and heat from cigarette smoke irritate gum tissue and increase your risk of infection.

Dry socket causes severe pain, bad breath, and delayed healing — often requiring additional treatment and dressings.

Patients who smoke within 48 hours after an extraction are several times more likely to develop dry socket than non-smokers.

Alcohol Interferes With Healing and Medications

Alcohol can disrupt your body’s healing process after dental surgery in several ways:

• It thins the blood, increasing bleeding and preventing proper clot formation.

• It interacts with painkillers and antibiotics, leading to nausea or side effects.

• It irritates oral tissue, delaying the healing of your gums and bone.

If you’re taking medication, avoid alcohol completely until your dentist confirms it’s safe.

What You Can Do Instead

Avoid smoking and alcohol for at least 72 hours — ideally a full week. Use nictoeine gum, patches or sprays to reduce cravings if required

Eat soft foods and stay hydrated with water.

Avoid straws, spitting, or vigorous rinsing for the first 24 hours.

Brush gently and follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions.

Contact your dentist if you experience worsening pain or an unpleasant taste.

Even a short break from smoking can make a big difference to your recovery.

How Long to Avoid Smoking and Drinking After Tooth Extraction

• Smoking: Avoid for at least 72 hours, ideally a week.

• Alcohol: Avoid for 48–72 hours, or longer if on medication.

Your mouth heals best when it’s free from irritants and well-hydrated.

Expert Care in Tooth Extractions — Adelaide Tooth Removals

At Adelaide Tooth Removals, we perform hundreds of surgical and wisdom tooth extractions every year with a strong focus on comfort and fast recovery.Our team provides clear post-operative care instructions to help you heal quickly and comfortably.

Book your appointment at adelaidetoothremovals.com.au or call (08) 8164 5546 to speak with our friendly team.