Whenever you hear about the dos and don’ts of post-tooth extraction, everyone talks about the food to eat, sleeping patterns, etc. But, if you are a marijuana user and have recently had a tooth extraction, you might be wondering whether it’s safe to smoke weed during the recovery process. Let’s explore whether it is allowed or advised after tooth extraction.
Is Smoking Weed Safe During Recovery Period?
So, wondering if it is okay to smoke weed post-tooth extraction?
No. Waiting for at least 24 to 72 hours before smoking weed is necessary so that there is no risk of developing a dry socket – a common complication after the tooth removal process.
You need to keep a few things in mind to ensure a smooth recovery and avoid any complications.
Wait Till The Effect of Anesthesia Completely Wears Off
Before you light up that joint, give yourself some time to recover from the effects of anesthesia. Wait until the sensation of numbness completely goes away before smoking. This ensures that you have better control over your mouth and that no accidental burning takes place.
Brush Your Teeth and Tongue
To minimize the risk of infection, thoroughly brush your teeth and tongue before starting to smoke. This will get rid of any food particles that might get stuck in the extraction site and lead to complications.
Avoid Using Straws and Spitting
For the first 24 hours after surgery, it is a must to steer clear of using straws and spitting constantly. These actions displace the blood clot that forms on the site of extraction, resulting in a condition known as dry sockets. They are known for their intense pain and can disrupt the healing process.
Why Shouldn’t You Smoke After Wisdom Tooth Removal?
Because of dry socket formation.
One major reason to not smoke after a tooth extraction is the increased risk of developing a dry socket. They occur when the blood clot, which is supposed to protect the extraction site, fails to form. This exposes the sensitive bone and leads to severe pain, sometimes even worse than the initial infection.
How Does Smoking Cause Dry Socket?
While the exact cause is not entirely understood, researchers say certain factors contribute to its development. Smoking has been found to decrease blood flow to the extraction site to intensify fibrinolytic activity, which breaks down blood clots. Hence, raises the likelihood of experiencing a dry socket.
When Can You Smoke After Wisdom Tooth Removal?
Generally, it is recommended to wait for at least 72 hours, or three days, after your tooth extraction before resuming smoking.
Closing Note
Remember to give yourself time to recover from anesthesia, maintain good oral hygiene, and avoid smoking for at least 2-3 days to allow proper healing.
Want to learn more about wisdom tooth extraction done by us in Houston? Do not shy away from contacting our expert from Pearlshine Dental experts at (281) 477-7200. We are here to help you.