How long must i wait to smoke after having a tooth removed?!
Question:
How long must i wait to smoke after having a tooth removed?
the tooth was badly decayed and was extracted to stop the spread of bacteria
Answers:
As a dentist I can tell you that I usually recommend that my patients always wait to smoke, drink from a straw or do any strenuous exercise for AT LEAST 72 hours after extraction. It is best to wait longer (ie: a week), but after the first 72 hours the chance of a dry socket does decrease considerably. Continue to take any prescribed antibiotics and pain medication (as needed) and after 24 hours following extraction you should begin GENTLE warm salt water rinses to help prevent any infection. Cold compresses will also help reduce swelling and will also help remove minor aches/pain you may have after your extraction. Good luck!