Good Teeth: They Don't Have to Be in Your Genes

If you are planning for a dental procedure, it's important to ensure that you are prepared for both your before-care and aftercare. These are a few things that you shouldn't do after your dental surgery.

1. Smoke Cigarettes

You might ignore your dentist when he or she tells you to avoid smoking after your dental surgery, since there is a good chance that he or she tells you to quit smoking all of the time anyway. However, it is truly important not to smoke after an oral procedure; otherwise, the sucking motion could cause damage to your surgical site. Plus, the ingredients in your cigarettes could slow down the healing process.

2. Use a Straw

Just as you should refrain from sucking on a cigarette, you should also avoid sucking on straws. Even though a liquid diet might be the best plan for a couple of days after your dental surgery, it's best not to consume these liquids with a straw.

3. Consume Alcohol

You might be craving a cocktail after your surgery, but it's best to avoid it. Alcohol can thin out your blood and make you more likely to bleed at your surgical site, and it can get in the way of your healing. Plus, the sugars in many alcoholic beverages can irritate the surgery site.

4. Drive

Dental surgery might not seem like a big deal, but there is a good chance that you will still be under the influence of your medications when you leave your dental professional's office. This is why you should arrange for a safe, reliable driver who can take you home after surgery. It's usually best to choose a friend or family member rather than a taxi driver or other public transportation provider; then, your loved one can help ensure that you get into your home okay and that you are able to lay down and rest without any trouble.

5. Brush Your Teeth

It's rare that your dentist will tell you not to brush your teeth, but in most cases, you should refrain from performing your usual at-home dental maintenance for a few days after your dental surgery. Instead, your dentist might recommend that you rinse out your mouth with a special medicated mouthwash.

Taking good care of yourself after dental surgery will help ensure that you heal as properly and as quickly as possible, and it can help you remain comfortable and safe. Make sure that you avoid these five things after your procedure, and talk to your dental professional for any other care tips that can help you enjoy a speedy and full recovery.