Why can't you smoke immediately after pulling your teeth

After removing the tooth, the doctor will usually explain to you what are the do's and don'ts over the next few days. The goal is to speed up the healing process and prevent further complications. One thing that is taboo is not allowed to smoke after pulling a tooth. Indeed, what is the reason, huh?

Why can't you smoke after pulling a tooth?

You are not allowed to smoke after pulling your teeth for no reason. Smoking after a tooth extraction, for the next few days, can hinder the tooth's healing process.

During a few days after the tooth extraction, blood clots will begin to form in the cavity (socket) that has been extracted. This blood clot acts as a protective cushion for the tooth bone and the now exposed nerve endings. This blood clot also serves as a foundation or support for the growth of new bone and soft tissue later.

Unfortunately, these naturally occurring blood clots are very easy to break. That is why dentists usually recommend that you avoid several things that can trigger damage to the blood clot. One of them smoked after pulling a tooth.

Smoking after removing a tooth has the risk of infecting the gums

Smoking can increase blood pressure. Even after the first suction, the systolic blood pressure can immediately increase by as much as 4 mmHg. The increase in blood pressure then increases the risk of bleeding which can actually thin the blood clot. Plus, the movement of smoking cigarettes can also deflate blood clots.

The release of a blood clot in the tooth cavity is called a dry socket. Dry socket can expose the bones and nerves of the tooth to the external environment, causing pain in the area where the tooth was extracted. People who smoke after removing a tooth have a higher risk of developing a blood clot that causes infection to the tooth socket. As a result, it actually slows down the recovery process.

Especially when you smoke, the carbon monoxide content constricts blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the mouth area as well as teeth and gums. The constriction of blood vessels after smoking will reduce the supply of oxygen and nutrients that should be delivered to the gum tissue which is in the process of healing. As a result, the recovery process is even slower.

This is also confirmed by a study which found that about 12% of dry socket problems occurs in people who smoke after tooth extraction. Meanwhile, for those who don't smoke, the risk of experiencing the same thing is only about four percent.

It's not just cigarettes that should be avoided after pulling a tooth

You are advised not to smoke for at least 48 hours after removing a tooth. The longer you allow it, the better it will be for the healing process of your teeth and gums.

What should be noted is that smoking is not the only thing that is prohibited after removing a tooth. Certain foods and drinks, the habit of touching in your mouth, drinking with a straw, and exercising are also not recommended for a while while you are still recovering.

But don't worry, these rules usually apply no later than 24 hours starting from the time your tooth is removed. After that, you can go back to eating, drinking, and doing activities as usual.