Smoking is hazardous to health. Even in daily life, it is advised not to smoke regularly as the presence of tobacco imposes dangers on health. Want to know why smoking is prohibited after tooth extraction? You have come to the right page.
It is a known fact that people addicted to tobacco have a really hard time quitting this habit since their bodies depend on it. Withdrawal is an excruciating time, and the agony is real.
We have discussed in detail the reason for abstinence and its complications to make you understand the gravity of the situation. Let us move on.
Why Should We Not Smoke After Tooth Extraction?
Here are some complications of smoking after getting a tooth extraction
Loss of Blood Clot
Smoking might seem harmless, but it takes a toll on healing after extraction is done. The first thing we do is suck the tail of the cigarette. This action loosens the clot due to pressure. If the blood scab is not there, the open wound would serve as a ground for bacterial infection. Progression can lead to halitosis as well.
The Emergence of Dry Sockets
In addition to inhalation or suction during smoking, letting it out is also troublesome after the tooth extraction process. Mostly, when you exhale, the force displaces the clot resulting in a dry socket. A dry socket due to smoking brings along the problem of foul odor and radiating pain from the tooth extraction site to the whole jaw. It usually develops between day one to day three after extraction.
It is very painful but usually heals on its own. But, if smoking is not stopped, then the healing process may fail.
Lack of Oxygen to the Site of Extraction
The smoke contains nicotine, hydrogen cyanide, carbon monoxide, and other harmful substances that lead to inflammation and bleeding. It also hinders oxygen transportation which is a very important part of the healing process.
How to take Care of the oral cavity after tooth Extraction?
Getting an extraction of either a damaged, loose, or wisdom tooth is always hard. It becomes even more difficult if you have a smoking problem. Well, for starters, here’s a list of food that you can eat.
- ice-cream
- smoothies
- soup
- mashed potatoes
- yogurt
Avoid
- Candies
- Spicy food
- Food or beverage with extremely high or low temperature
- Acidic foods
Here are a few pointers to keep in mind
- Be careful not to use straws for suction as it can cause loss of the blood clot or scab, leaving the area of tooth extraction exposed.
- Do not stop flossing and brushing, continue to do so but steer clear of the site where the tooth was extracted from
- Make sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and apt technique to avoid inconvenience.
- It is a good practice to rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution. Swish and swirl thrice a day to get rid of the bacteria that may potentially cause harm.
- Clove has anti-inflammatory benefits, you can either use it as a whole or dip a cotton ball in the essential oil extracted and place it at the tooth extraction site.
Conclusion
Now you know why smoking after a tooth extraction is prohibited. If your scab has dislodged anyways, it is better to get a dentist’s help promptly. Head to Cypress Dental Clinic in Tx now to set up an appointment with a dental expert. Call at (832)-427-6620 for more information.