A person who recently got his tooth pulled complained about something on an online forum. He said the timetable received at the dental clinic should have addressed when he should start drinking soda again.
In this article, we’ll discuss a list of FAQs asked specifically by soda lovers after they get their tooth pulled.
When can I drink soda after tooth extraction
A wait of 24 to 48 hours is usually recommended. After this time, you can continue drinking a moderate amount of soda. In the meanwhile, you must follow the post-op instructions of your dentist and consume a soft or liquid diet to avoid dislodging your blood clot.
Some of you might think, why is blood clot important? As scary as it sounds, it is of significant medical importance. If it gets dislodged, there are high chances of getting a dry socket – an extremely painful condition.
You can gradually begin reintroducing carbonated drinks like soda to your diet after the initial healing phase is through. But keep in mind that soda is full of acids and sugars that can harm your teeth. This ultimately increases the risk of developing tooth decay.
What can happen if I continue drinking soda after tooth extraction
If you continue drinking soda after getting your tooth pulled, you can get either of the following;
· Dry Socket:
Carbonated beverages like soda can disrupt the blood clot of the extracted tooth site. Once this happens, the result is a dry socket. If this condition develops, the only solution would be to rush to your dentist to get a series of pain-relieving treatments. In addition, wound healing is also delayed.
· Tooth Decay:
Tooth decay is a house of bacteria. People who consume large quantities of soda can develop tooth decay. This is because soda is rich in sugars and acids that damage and erode the enamel, thereby resulting in cavities.
· Delayed Healing:
Inflammation is a part of the normal healing process. However, its increase can cause drastic changes at the extracted tooth site. Soda can increase inflammation due to its high sugar content. As a result, delay occurs in the healing process.
· Increased Risk of Infection:
Bacteria are the enemies of your oral cavity. Those of you who consume large quantities of soda rapidly increase the bacterial growth in your mouth. The result is a greater risk of developing infection at the extraction site.
Thus, it is important to avoid consuming soda immediately following a tooth extraction to promote a smooth and quick recovery.
Alternatives to Soda
Within 24-48 hours, you can stick to liquid or a semi-solid diet after getting your tooth pulled. During this time span, you can consume the following:
· Herbal Tea:
Herbal Tea is an excellent alternative to soda. It is caffeine-free, giving it added advantages like soothing the extraction site. Moreover, it promotes healing via the antioxidants present within.
· Smoothies:
Fruit and vegetable smoothies are a go-to for many. They are delicious in taste and can act as an alternative to soda after tooth extraction. It provides the extraction site with the necessary nutrients. Furthermore, it also hydrates the mouth without pressing against the extraction site.
· Water:
Water consumption is crucial for maintaining hydration and accelerating the healing process following tooth extraction. Any food particles lodged in the extraction site can also be flushed out with its assistance.
· Fruit Juice:
Fresh fruit juice is also a good alternative to sodas. One pertinent thing to mention is diluting the juice with water to reduce its acidity and sugar content. Moreover, be sure to check for the seeds of fruits because if seeds get stuck in the tooth socket – they can cause serious complications.
· Milk and Dairy Products:
They are not only high in calcium but can also aid in healing and strengthening your teeth. This makes milk and dairy products a substitute for soda lovers – after they get their tooth pulled.
Avoid drinking the above-mentioned alternatives with a straw since this can dislodge the blood clot and postpone the healing process. Furthermore, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water after consuming food or liquids to keep the extraction site clean and encourage healing.
1 Thing you can’t miss after getting your tooth pulled
After getting a tooth extracted, oral care is often neglected. Oral care implies brushing your teeth twice daily – taking care to avoid the extraction site. Smart sonic electric toothbrush are a perfect fit in this regard. Oclean offers a wide range of such brushes. Be sure to check them out.
In addition to brushing your teeth, you must rinse your mouth with warm salt water (saline rinse). This should be done to prevent the growth of bacteria and promote healing of the extraction site. To make a saline rinse, add ½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of water.
Bottom-line
After tooth extraction, you can continue drinking soda after 24 to 48 hours. Certain complications like dry socket, delayed healing, infection and tooth decay can occur – if you drink soda immediately after getting your tooth pulled. Alternatives to soda have been discussed in the preceding section of this article.
You must regularly brush your teeth with a smart sonic electric toothbrush taking care of the extraction site to prevent the growth of bacteria.
