If you recently had a tooth extracted and are wondering when it is safe to use a straw, you’re not alone. Many people experience pain and discomfort after dental extraction, so the idea of using a straw can be daunting.
However, with careful consideration and advice from your dentist, using a straw can be helpful in some situations. Let’s explore when it is okay to use a straw after having your tooth pulled.
The Healing Process After Tooth Extraction
After having your tooth removed by an oral surgeon or general dentist, it is important to understand the healing process. The first day after a tooth extraction often brings swelling, bleeding, and soreness around the site of the extraction.
It is normal for this pain to last for several days afterward as well. Your mouth may also feel numb due to the anesthesia used during the procedure.
When Can I Start Using A Straw?
Your dentist may recommend that you wait at least 5-7 days before using a straw in order to give your mouth ample time to heal properly. This means avoiding all activities that require suctioning or sucking on items such as drinking through straws or smoking cigarettes.
Even if you do not feel any pain or discomfort in your mouth after 5-7 days, it is best practice to still wait until your dentist has given you permission before using a straw again.
Can I Use A Straw To Soothe Swelling Or Pain?
Using ice packs on the outside of your face near where the extraction occurred can help reduce swelling significantly over time. Additionally, taking medications such as ibuprofen can help alleviate any discomfort associated with your dental procedure.
While there are stories of people who have used straws to reduce their pain or swelling immediately following an extraction, we do not recommend this method as it could lead to further complications down the line if done improperly.
Conclusion
Using a straw one week after having your tooth extracted should only be done with permission from your dentist. Remember that even if you don’t feel any discomfort or swelling in your mouth after 5-7 days post-extraction,
it is still important to wait until given clearance from your doctor before returning back to normal activities such as drinking through a straw or smoking cigarettes.
Following these guidelines will ensure that you have adequate time for proper healing without worrying about causing further damage by using items that require suctioning too soon!
