It has been 5 days since my 4 wisdom teeth have been removed. On the 3rd day I had an intense pain on my lower left hole. Went to the oral surgean next day and he said, I may have a dry socket but he is unsure. He packed the tooth hole and told me to come 2 days later; he also gave me vicodin for the pain. The pain has subsided considerably. The question is when can I smoke again, it has been 5 days now since surgery and the pain is minimal. I am a light smoker, but will I be able to smoke now without it significantly affecting my potential dry socket and my other holes? I have heard wait 48hrs, 72 hrs and 5 days. Just not sure who to listen from. Also, today at lunch I accidently/stupidly drank through a straw approximately 10oz.

I'd suggest you not smoke for at least 30 days :)

I think 30days is too long to start again. Actually instead I have used this oppurtunity to try to quit smoking. I have been using the patch to help me transition back to not smoking. So far it is working.
Also it was confirmed that I do have a dry socket unfortunately. The gauzes have helped big time.

That's great that some good is coming from this... Good luck with quitting!