Smoking is a known health hazard. It is advised to not smoke regularly as tobacco imposes dangers on the well-being of the user and people around him. Smoking is prohibited even after tooth extraction; read on to know why.
People addicted to tobacco have issues quitting this habit since their normal functioning depends on it. Withdrawal is a very hard time, and the discomfort is real.
Why Is Smoking Prohibited After Tooth Extraction?
Here are some complications explained by smoking after getting a tooth extracted.
Blood Clot Loss
Smoking may seem harmless, but it reduces healing after tooth extraction. The first thing is sucking the tail of the cigarette, which loosens the clot because of pressure. If the scab is not there, the open wound becomes a ground for bacterial infection; its progression leads to halitosis as well.
Dry Sockets
In addition to inhalation while smoking, letting the air out is also troublesome. During exhalation, the force displaces the clot, which results in a dry socket.
A dry socket because of smoking brings tags along with the issue of foul odor and shooting pain from the extraction site to the whole jaw. Usually, it develops between days 1 to 3 after the tooth is pulled out.
It is painful yet heals on its own. But, if habit is continued, then the healing may fail.
Lack of Oxygen to Extraction Site
Tobacco smoke contains hydrogen cyanide, nicotine, carbon monoxide, and other dangerous substances that lead to inflammation and bleeding. It also hinders oxygen transport which is a very important part of the healing.
Taking Care of the Mouth after Tooth Extraction
Getting an extraction is always hard, and it becomes more difficult if you have a smoking addiction. For starters, here are some foods that you can easily eat.
- Ice-Cream
- Soup
- Mashed Potatoes
- Smoothies
- Yogurt
You should avoid
- Spicy food
- Candies
- Food or beverage with high or low temperature
- Acidic foods
Here are some things to remember
- Be sure to not use straws for drinking as it causes loss of the blood scab, leaving the area of extraction exposed.
Continue to floss and brush, but stay away from the site where the tooth was extracted. - Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and proper technique to avoid inconvenience.
- Rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution; just swish and swirl 3 times to eliminate potentially harmful bacteria.
Clove as a whole or as oil is beneficial, chew whole or dip cotton in its oil extracted and place at the extraction site.
Conclusion
Now you have ample knowledge of why smoking after a tooth extraction is not allowed. If your blood scab has displaced regardless, get a dentist’s help as soon as possible, it is an emergency. Head to Pasadena Oral Surgery in TX now for assistance. To set up an appointment, call 281 299 0053 for more information.