Most dentists recommend waiting at least several days before having any soda after wisdom teeth removal, and often closer to 1–2 weeks for fizzy drinks. Always follow the specific instructions your own dentist or oral surgeon gave you.
General waiting timeline
Most oral surgery aftercare guides advise avoiding soda and all carbonated drinks completely for at least the first 3 days, with many recommending 5–7 days or even up to 1–2 weeks depending on how you heal. Early on, stick to water and other non-carbonated, non-acidic drinks to protect the blood clot that forms in the socket.
After about 7 days, some sources say small amounts of soda may be okay if healing is smooth, but only by sipping gently and not using a straw. Others recommend waiting 7–14 days before any carbonated drinks, especially colas or very acidic sodas, to further reduce dry-socket and irritation risk.
Why soda is risky early
Carbonation can create pressure and disturb or dislodge the blood clot, which can lead to a painful dry socket and delayed healing. The acidity and sugar in soda can also irritate the surgical site and feed bacteria, increasing the chance of infection.
Because the tissue continues healing internally for days after pain starts to improve, drinking soda too soon (even at 3 days) can still cause problems even if the mouth feels better on the surface. This is why many dental practices favor a more cautious, 1–2 week window before returning to fizzy, sugary drinks.
Safer ways to reintroduce soda
When your dentist says it is safe, reintroduce soda gradually and with some precautions. Helpful tips include:
- Sip from a cup, never a straw, to avoid suction on the healing socket.
- Start with small amounts and avoid swishing the soda around your mouth over the extraction area.
- Prefer milder or less acidic sodas first and rinse gently with water afterward to clear sugar and acid.
If you notice new pain, bad taste, or worsening swelling after drinking soda, stop and contact your dentist or surgeon for advice.
