Can I Smoke After Tooth Extraction?
Although it can be incredibly difficult for someone who smokes regularly to abstain for any extended period of time, it is very important that you do not smoke for at least 72 hours following the tooth extraction new port richey florida. Serious complications, such as inflammation or a dry socket are much more likely to develop if an individual smokes within this time period, due to a combination of the chemical toxins in the smoke and the mechanical act of smoking, which can expel the newly formed blood clot. If a dry socket does develop, you may experience difficulty opening your mouth and experience intense pain that radiates throughout the whole side of your face.
Risks Associated with Smoking
Although quitting smoking is a very difficult thing to do, this may be a good opportunity to start the process. Doing so will make a big difference in improving your oral and physical health, as there are many known risks associated with smoking, such as oral, throat and esophageal cancer. Smoking also impairs the ability of blood to flow to your gums, which places you at an increased risk of infections and inhibits the healing process following a procedure like a tooth extraction.
Smoking also increases your risk of the following:
- Bad breath
- Tartar and plaque buildup, resulting in gum disease
- Tooth discoloration
- Leukoplakia
- Jawbone deterioration
- Oral cancer
How to Stop Smoking
Though quitting smoking is difficult to do, it is not impossible and there are several different ways people have successfully done so. One popular option for quitting smoking is using nicotine gum or patches. Some people also use medications such as Zyban to help manage their nicotine cravings. Others have had success through non-traditional methods, such as hypnosis, acupuncture, and yoga. There are also smoking cessation classes and support groups available in many area hospitals.
If you do not wish to quit smoking or feel you are incapable of doing so, reducing the number of cigarettes or cigars you smoke on a regular basis will still decrease your risk of developing issues like a dry socket or more serious issues like oral cancer. By reducing the number of cigarettes or cigars by half, you effectively reduce your risk of developing these issues by half as well. All the same, the best thing you can do to preserve your oral and physical health is to avoid smoking altogether, and a mandatory 72 hour waiting period following a tooth extraction may be the perfect opportunity to start this process.
Contact Us Today
At Coastal Jaw Surgery, we are committed to providing you with quality dental care and making your experience as smooth as possible. To schedule a consultation for a tooth extraction, learn more about the risks associated with smoking following the extraction of your tooth, or to learn more about our clinic and services, contact us today at (800) NEW-LOOK or fill out an online form at https://coastaljaw.com/appointment-request/
We look forward to improving your oral health, aesthetic appearance of your smile, and overall quality of life!
More on Tooth Extraction : Healing After Tooth Extraction