I Just Got Wisdom Teeth Extracted: Can I vape?

Wisdom teeth, known as third molars, typically erupt between 17 and 25. However, they often don't have enough room to grow properly, leading to crowding, pain, and potential infection. In many cases, wisdom teeth extraction is necessary to maintain oral health.

If you've recently had your wisdom teeth extracted, you may be wondering if you can still vape. The answer is that it's generally not recommended, and here's why.

Why Vaping After Wisdom Teeth Extraction is a Bad Idea

1. Increased Risk of Dry Socket: A dry socket is a painful condition that occurs when the blood clot, a crucial part of the healing process, at the extraction site becomes dislodged. Vaping can increase the risk of dry sockets by drying out the area and making it more susceptible to infection.

2.  Delayed Healing: Vaping can irritate the extraction site and hinder healing. This can lead to increased pain, swelling, and a higher risk of complications.

3. Infection Risk: Vaping can introduce bacteria and other microorganisms into the mouth, increasing the risk of infection at the extraction site.

4. Nicotine and Its Effects: Nicotine, the addictive substance in cigarettes and e-cigarettes, can constrict blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the extraction site. This can delay healing and increase the risk of complications.

Tips for Healing After Wisdom Teeth Extraction

• Follow Your Periodontist's Instructions: Adhere to your dentist's post-operative instructions carefully. This may include avoiding strenuous activity, eating soft foods, and taking prescribed medications as directed.

• Avoid Smoking and Vaping: It's important to remember that not following these instructions can lead to complications and prolong your recovery. As discussed earlier, smoking and vaping can significantly hinder the healing process and increase the risk of complications.

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth gently and use a mouthwash to keep your mouth clean and prevent infection.

• Rest: Get plenty of rest to allow your body to heal correctly.

• Apply Ice Packs: Applying ice packs to your face can help reduce swelling and pain.

When to Contact Your Periodontist

If you experience any of the following symptoms after wisdom teeth extraction, contact your Periodontist immediately:

• Severe pain

• Excessive bleeding

• Swelling that doesn't improve

• Fever

• Difficulty swallowing

• Foul-smelling discharge from the extraction site

Conclusion

While vaping may seem like a harmless habit, it can have serious consequences after wisdom teeth extraction. By avoiding vaping, smoking, and following your dentist's instructions, you can help ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.

Progressive Periodontics Tigard is dedicated to providing high-quality periodontal care. If you have any questions or concerns about your oral health, please don't hesitate to contact us.