Are you a regular coffee fiend? Are you unable to start your day without a large cup (or pot) of Joe? If so, you aren’t alone; coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages on the planet, after all! But are you still able to enjoy your favorite drink if you’re scheduled for an upcoming tooth extraction? Here’s why your dentist thinks you should hold off on doing so for a bit, along with some better alternatives and tips for promoting a smooth recovery.
Why You Shouldn’t Drink Coffee Following a Tooth Extraction
Simply put, enjoying coffee immediately following a tooth extraction is a bad idea due to the impact the drink has on your mouth’s healing ability! Drinking coffee or any other type of hot beverage can disturb the blood clot that forms over the extracted tooth’s empty socket. Blood clots might seem a little gross, but they’re necessary; they protect the empty socket from drying out as it heals!
Since drinking coffee greatly increases the risk of experiencing a painful dry socket, it’s best to wait at least 5 days before reintroducing coffee to your diet. Within two weeks, the swelling in your mouth should be minimal and you can resume your coffee intake as normal.
What to Eat & Drink After the Extraction
What you eat during the recovery period can influence the effectiveness and length of your recovery, so it’s in your best interest to take things seriously! It’s recommended that you stick with soft and bland foods for the first week following the extraction. Things like eggs, mashed potatoes, cottage cheese, yogurt, protein shakes, and more are all good options. It’s also crucial that you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water; of course, don’t use a drinking straw as the suction can disrupt blood clots.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery
In addition to adhering to the dietary guidelines provided by your dentist, there are other things you can do to promote a speedy recovery without setbacks. Consider the following:
- Avoid exercise and strenuous physical activity for the first 24 hours to divert blood away from the extraction site.
- Avoid poor oral habits like smoking, using tobacco products, or using your teeth as tools.
- Gently rinse your mouth with warm saltwater after the first 24 hours.
- Apply an ice pack or cold compress to alleviate any swelling.
- Take any medications (if prescribed) as directed.
Even if you shouldn’t drink coffee immediately after your tooth extraction, following these tips will ensure that your recovery goes by quickly and that you’ll be back to enjoying your favorite drink in no time at all!
About the Practice
The team at Muskingum Valley Oral Surgery is thrilled to serve the dental needs of the Cambridge and Marietta areas under the leadership of Dr. Jeff Lee. Dr. Lee received his dental doctorate from The Ohio State University and has experience in several different fields of dentistry. His practice is proud to offer many types of services including tooth extractions. If you have any questions about tooth extractions or need to schedule a visit, please contact the practice online or over the phone for assistance: (740) 432-8768.