Getting a wisdom tooth extracted is something that most people experience at some stage in life. As much as it’s a routine oral procedure, what you do afterward is as important as the procedure itself. A big issue is smoking. Most people are curious whether or not smoking impacts how soon and/or safely their mouth heals following a tooth extraction.
When it comes to tooth extraction healing and smoking, the dangers are real. Smoking can delay healing, cause more pain, and result in issues such as dry sockets. In this blog, we will discuss the connection between smoking and tooth extraction, and provide tips to help your mouth heal faster if you smoke.
Why Smoking After Tooth Removal Can Be Risky
Smoking impacts blood circulation in your mouth. When a tooth is removed, your body will work to create a blood clot in the space. This clot protects the area and initiates healing. When you smoke, the chemicals can disrupt the clot or cause it to fall out too early. This will slow healing and cause pain and swelling.
The risk is even greater when wisdom teeth are involved. The teeth are toward the back of the mouth and may be more difficult to brush or dry out. If there is interference in the healing, you may have stinging pain a couple of days later after the treatment, which is an indication the area is not healing as normally expected.
The Role of Oxygen and Blood Flow
Nicotine is just one of the reasons why healing is slowed down by smoking. It makes your blood vessels smaller, which decreases the flow of oxygen and nutrients to your gums. Your body requires both to heal the wound that was left after the tooth was extracted. If there is not enough oxygen, the healing site will take longer to close up, and this can cause infection.
Another issue is how suction and heat from smoking can impact the clot. Blowing through your mouth or vaping can also dislodge the clot even without the use of tobacco.
Significance of Consulting a Dental Professional
If you are going to have your wisdom tooth extracted and you are a smoker, it’s a good idea to talk to a dentist in Winnipeg about what you can do. Your dentist will be able to advise you on how long you should not smoke and what to look for in terms of trouble during the recovery process. They can also recommend rinses or instruments to clean the area and prevent infection.
Informing your dentist that you smoke will also assist them in preparing for your recovery. Some patients will require more aftercare or longer follow-up than others. What you want is to ensure that your mouth heals well without any additional risks.
Special Care with Wisdom Teeth
For those who require wisdom tooth extractions in Winnipeg, understanding the risks associated with smoking can be a huge factor in recovery. Wisdom teeth usually require surgical extraction, particularly if they are impacted or develop at an angle. This will mean your jawbone and gums will take longer to heal.
Since the treatment is more in-depth tissue and healing, the risks associated with smoking are higher. Pain, swelling, or infection may occur if the site is not covered. That is why dental professionals usually emphasize quitting smoking, even for a few days following the removal of the tooth.
What Is a Dry Socket and Why You Should Avoid It
A dry socket is a painful condition that may occur after a tooth is extracted. Under normal circumstances, a blood clot would form to protect the area and start healing. But if the clot is dislodged or fails to form properly, the bone and nerves are exposed. Dry socket is the term given to this and can cause stabbing pain and prolong your healing process.
Smoking increases your risk of developing a dry socket. The suction action of smoking or e-cigarettes can dislodge the clot. The tobacco chemicals can also prevent it from forming. That’s one reason your dentist may caution against smoking at least 48 to 72 hours following treatment.
Healing Tips
If you are a smoker and you’re going to have a tooth removed, follow these tips to aid healing:
- Do not smoke for at least 3 days following treatment. Longer is better.
- Utilize a nicotine patch if necessary. This will reduce your craving without involving your mouth.
- Rinse softly with salt water after 24 hours, but do not strong-swish.
- Chew soft foods and away from the treated area.
- Stay hydrated and abstain from alcohol and hot beverages.
Even though quitting smoking is not easy, a break while healing can avoid pain and spare you additional trips to the clinic.
Look for Warning Signs
While your mouth is healing, monitor the area for warning signs of trouble. If you experience severe pain, bad breath, or swelling that increases after a few days, call your dentist. These may be symptoms of dry socket or infection.
It is also a good idea to make any follow-up appointments your dentist recommends. They will ensure that the site heals properly and will have any concerns regarding smoking or home care you might have answered.
Need Support After a Tooth Removal?
At Smiles on Portage Dental Centre, we know the difficulties involved in healing after having a tooth removed. Our staff provides useful tips for smokers who require special care during the healing process. Whether you’re seeking a reputable clinic for wisdom tooth removal in Winnipeg or a good dentist in Winnipeg, we’re here to assist you every step of the way.
If you are to have a wisdom tooth extracted, call Smiles on Portage Dental Centre today. We’ll walk you through the procedure and assist you in keeping your smile safe while healing.