It is generally recommended to avoid drinking alcohol after a tooth extraction for at least 72 hours, and preferably for 7 to 10 days. Alcohol can interfere with the formation and stability of the blood clot necessary for healing, increasing the risk of a painful complication called dry socket. It also weakens the immune system, can cause dehydration, and may interact negatively with any prescribed pain medications or antibiotics. Drinking alcohol too soon after extraction can delay healing and increase the risk of infection or prolonged pain. It is best to follow your dentist's specific advice and wait until the extraction site has healed significantly before resuming alcohol consumption.