The healing process after tooth extraction is more delicate than expected. One of the most common mistakes is to start smoking before the healing is complete. The biggest risk of this situation is the extremely painful infection condition known as dry socket or alveolitis, which occurs when the blood clot is dislodged.
Many patients ask the question “how many hours later can I smoke?” because they have difficulty quitting smoking. However, in order to give a clear time, the type of extraction, the patient’s general health and the course of the healing process should be taken into consideration. Nevertheless, the general clinical approach is to refrain from smoking for at least 72 hours. The ideal period is 5-7 days.
Smoking is risky not only because of nicotine but also because of the negative pressure in the mouth. The sucking motion to inhale the smoke can dislodge the blood clot on the fresh wound. This leads directly to the exposure of bone tissue and the onset of infection. In short, it is not just the contents that cause damage, but the mechanics.
Patients sometimes try to circumvent this process by placing wet gauze over the wound or directing the cigarette to the other side of the mouth. However, these methods are not safe and do not change the fact that the risk remains. Moreover, when a dry socket occurs, even painkillers are often inadequate and the treatment process is prolonged.
If it is very difficult for you to quit smoking, solutions such as nicotine patches or alternative products that are not absorbed orally can be considered. Your dentist will help you with this and offer personalized suggestions.
Remember, this process requires only a few days of patience, but this short period of time can be critical to ensure that you spend the following weeks pain-free.
