Having your wisdom teeth extracted is no easy task, and the last thing you would want to do is slow down your recovery. It’s easy to be tempted by a cold soda after surgery, but it might not be the best option at the moment.
The carbonation, acidity, and sugar content of a soda can get in the way of healing and even cause painful complications. But does this mean you need to give up soda forever? Not quite!
Know the risks of having soda after wisdom teeth removal and understand when it is okay to return to drinking soda. This knowledge can aid in your healthy recovery. Let’s discuss what occurs if you drink soda too early and how to reintroduce it safely after your procedure.
What Are the Immediate Effects of Soda After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Consuming soda too early after wisdom teeth removal in Berwyn, IL, can result in a variety of problems. This can extend the healing time and cause more discomfort.
Here’s how:
- Carbonation Risks – The carbonation in soda may disrupt the blood clot that is formed over the extraction area, which is vital for healing. Without this blood clot, the region is open to complications.
- Acidic Nature – Sodas are very acidic, and their consumption can irritate the sensitive tissue where the wisdom teeth were extracted. It can cause discomfort and hinder your tissue healing.
- Sugar Concerns –The excessive sugar in soda provides a perfect breeding ground for bacteria, making it more susceptible to infection at the surgical site.
- Cold Temperature Sensitivity – When the soda is cold, it may cause sensitivity and pain, particularly in a sensitive area to begin with.
Risk of Dry Socket from Soda
Another major risk of consuming soda too early is dry sockets. This is an excruciating condition that happens when the blood clot covering the extraction site is knocked out or dissolves prematurely.
How does Soda Contribute?
- Carbonation can break the clot loose, revealing underlying bone and nerves.
- Most people sip soda from a straw, which makes a vacuum and adds to the chance of breaking up the clot.
- Soda contains acidity that will dissolve the clot, so it will not develop well.
Symptoms to Look For
- Severe pain that intensifies several days following the wisdom teeth removal.
- Unpleasant taste or bad odor emanating from the extraction site.
- Exposed bone where there is supposed to be a blood clot.
If you have any of these symptoms, call your dentist as soon as possible for treatment.
When Can You Drink Soda Safely Again?
The amount of time it takes to drink soda safely again is different for everyone, but follow these general guidelines:
- Wait a week or longer before adding carbonated beverages to your diet again. The longer you wait, the less likely you are to develop complications.
- Watch your recovery – If you continue to have swelling, sensitivity, or pain, wait a few more days before resuming soda.
- Ease back—If you do resume soda, skip the straw and use small sips. Instead of ice-cold, prefer room-temperature soda.
Soda might be your go-to drink, but after wisdom teeth removal, it’s best to press pause on carbonated beverages. The risks simply aren’t worth it. Give your mouth the time it needs to heal, and when you’re ready, reintroduce soda carefully. Your patience will pay off with a smooth, pain-free recovery. In the meantime, opt for healing-friendly drinks and enjoy a healthier, faster healing process. Your future self will thank you!
