Can you vape after wisdom teeth removal? This is a question that many people are asking after having their wisdom teeth removed. The answer is no, you cannot vape after wisdom teeth removal. It is recommended by dentists that patients wait at least 1 week after the extraction before vaping. This article discusses everything you need to know about vaping after wisdom teeth removal, from why it’s discouraged, when it becomes safe, and how to minimize risks when vaping occurs.
Why Can You Not Vape After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
The main reason why you cannot vape after wisdom teeth removal is that it can cause dry sockets. A dry socket is a condition that can occur after tooth extraction where the blood clot that forms in the socket becomes dislodged. This can lead to exposed bone and nerves, which can be incredibly painful. In theory, this means that a dry socket can prolong healing time and increase the risk of infection after wisdom teeth removal.
A dry socket is thought to occur because of the sucking action that occurs when you take a drag from a cigarette or vape. This action can dislodge the blood clot, leading to a dry socket.
Additionally, some chemicals found in tobacco can interfere with the healing process. For example, nicotine can constrict blood vessels, decreasing blood flow to the area, which can delay healing. Vaping has also been linked to inflammation.
When Can You Vape After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
The minimum amount of time dentists recommend you should wait before vaping after wisdom teeth removal is one week. Dry socket occurrence tends to peak on the 4th day after surgery. So, by waiting at least one week, you can help ensure that the risk of dry sockets is minimized.
At an absolute minimum, it’s a good idea to wait for the 4th day, when dry socket occurrence peaks, before even considering vaping.
Of course, it’s always best to wait longer if possible. If you can refrain from vaping for two weeks or more, that’s even better. The sooner you vape after the surgery, the greater the risk you’ll experience dry sockets.
How to Minimize Risks When Vaping After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Let’s be clear, there is no such thing as “safe” vaping. It is also absolutely the recommendation of dentists to NOT vape all together for at least a week after your extraction. Other options such as nicotine patches may be a worthwhile investigation to hold you over in cases that you need them.
However, if you can’t or don’t want to wait the recommended time before vaping, there are some steps you can take to minimize risks.
Minimize the Amount of Vaping you do
This one is pretty straightforward. The less you vape, the lower your risk of dry socket or other complications will be. If you can only vape once a day, that’s better than vaping multiple times throughout the day.
Minimize the Amount of Suction you Create
If you can take shallow puffs rather than deep drags, that will help minimize the amount of suction created. This will decrease the risk of dislodging the blood clot and causing dry socket.
Be Careful About What Chemicals You Inhale
As we mentioned earlier, some chemicals found in tobacco can interfere with the healing process. So, if you’re going to vape after wisdom teeth removal, be careful about what chemicals you’re inhaling. Try to avoid chemicals that are known to interfere with healing, such as nicotine.
How Can I tell if I have a dry socket?
In comparison to a normal socket containing a blood clot, a dry socket appears empty. The normal blood clot that protects the exposed bone has dissolved or been dislodged, leaving the bone and nerves unprotected. Additionally, the gum tissue around a dry socket is often inflamed and may be tender to the touch. In most cases, dry socket symptoms and signs include:
- An empty-looking tooth socket; Lacking blood clots or granulation tissues that are seen in normal healing (Dry sockets may be filled with saliva, food, or other debris)
- Visible bone on the walls of the empty socket may be visible or could be partially covered with gray/yellow layers of necrotic tissues.
- The gum tissue surrounding the extraction site is inflamed (reddish, painful, swollen).’
For more information on dry sockets vs clots take a look at our article regarding the topic. If you believe you have a dry socket contact a dentist for an individualized treatment plan.
A Note on Vaping
It’s important to note that vaping is not an inherently “safe” activity. Vaping can pose many risks to your health, even if you don’t have wisdom teeth surgery. Research continues to be ongoing about the risks of vaping in relation to:
- Lung Injuries
- Seizures
- Strokes
- Cardiovascular issues
- Nicotine addiction
- Battery explosion injuries
- Death
There are also various effects of vaping on your teeth. So, if you can avoid vaping altogether, that’s always the best option. If you can’t or don’t want to avoid vaping, be sure to take precautions to minimize the risks.
Disclaimer
The contents of this website, such as text, graphics, images, and other material are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be substituted for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Nothing on this website constitutes the practice of medicine, law or any other regulated profession.
No two mouths are the same, and each oral situation is unique. As such, it isn’t possible to give comprehensive advice or diagnose oral conditions based on articles alone. The best way to ensure you’re getting the best dental care possible is to visit a dentist in person for an examination and consultation.
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