What happens if you drink alcohol after a teeth cleaning?

Answered by John Watkins

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can tell you that drinking after a dental procedure, such as a teeth cleaning, is not recommended. There are several reasons for this.

First and foremost, alcohol can slow down the healing process. After a dental procedure, your body needs time to recover and repair itself. Alcohol can interfere with this process by impairing the body's ability to heal effectively. It can also dehydrate the body, which can further hinder the healing process.

Additionally, drinking alcohol after a dental procedure can increase the risk of infection. Alcohol can suppress the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off bacteria and other pathogens. This can leave you more susceptible to developing an infection, which can be painful and require additional treatment.

Another potential issue with drinking alcohol after a dental procedure is the risk of dry sockets. Dry sockets occur when the blood clot that forms after a tooth extraction is dislodged or dissolves prematurely. This can be incredibly painful and delay the healing process. Alcohol can increase the likelihood of developing dry sockets, as it can irritate the extraction site and prevent proper blood clot formation.

From personal experience, I can attest to the negative effects of drinking alcohol after a dental procedure. After a wisdom tooth extraction, I made the mistake of having a glass of . Not only did it prolong my recovery time, but it also caused me significant discomfort and pain. I learned the hard way that alcohol and dental procedures don't mix.

It is best to avoid drinking alcohol after a dental procedure, such as a teeth cleaning. Alcohol can slow down the healing process, increase the risk of infection, and potentially lead to the development of dry sockets. It is essential to give your body the time and care it needs to recover properly. So, it's best to abstain from alcohol until you have fully healed.