After a tooth extraction, a blood cloth forms in the jaw where the tooth used to be. This blood cloth is the first phase of healing after the extraction. Any kind of suction in the mouth can dislodge that blood cloth and cause the healing to be late, or even create a painful condition known as a dry socket.

It is recommended not to drink from a straw for three days after a tooth extraction because that is the peak time when a dry socket can occur. Any suction in the mouth is not recommended during those three days, which includes spitting, and especially smoking.

The information above should be used as a reference only. Any medical decision should not be taken before consulting a health care professional.

The masculine gender may have been more used in the article, but without prejudice, to make reading easier.

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