Having your wisdom teeth taken out can be an uncomfortable, but necessary, procedure. Not only is wisdom teeth surgery physically painful, but you must also follow detailed instructions to make sure you are healing properly and taking necessary precautions to avoid infection.
One of the biggest questions amongst those who have recently had their wisdom teeth taken out is: can I drink coffee a week after wisdom teeth extraction? Since coffee is a popular morning ritual and the morning is often when your pain from the surgery can be the most intense, the urge to find answers is strong.
Firstly, it is necessary to understand why coffee has been almost universally recommended for those who have recently had wisdom teeth removed.
Coffee is known to contain tannic acid which can be helpful in numbing the pain and swelling associated with wisdom teeth extraction. It can act as a sort of anesthetic for your mouth following the procedure. Neither coffee nor any other beverage is a substitute for prescribed medication.
But coffee also has a diuretic effect which can reduce inflammation and aid healing.
However, it is important to remember that coffee, just like other beverages, can cause a number of post-extraction complications. When hot, coffee increases blood circulation, which can actually make the healing process take longer and lead to the wound becoming re-inflamed.
The decision to drink coffee after wisdom teeth extraction should be weighed carefully. Fortunately, there are a few ways to make coffee a little more appropriate for those who have just had their wisdom teeth taken out.
Experts recommend that you use cold or lukewarm coffee to lessen discomfort in the early days of healing. You should also take tiny sips of coffee, as alcohol, caffeine and carbonation can irritate weep areas and cause infection.
Timing: When is the Right Time to Drink Coffee?
Ideally, it is recommended that you wait two weeks after the procedure before drinking coffee again. This gives you time to allow the swelling and wound area to heal sufficiently.
However, if you have healed quickly and feel that it is safe, then you may drink coffee 2-3 days after your surgery. You should always follow your doctor’s advice and pay attention to your body’s needs, as everyone’s healing process is different.
In any case, it is essential that you take good care of your wounds, whether that means drinking coffee or abstaining completely. Your health and wellbeing is of paramount importance.
Additional Precautions to Take
While drinking coffee after wisdom teeth extraction may help decrease pain, there are a few other precautions that one should take. Firstly, it is important to know that caffeine can increase heart rate and dehydration, so it is necessary to stay hydrated.
Additionally, you should pay attention to what goes into your coffee. Avoid added sugar, sweeteners, and artificial flavor enhancers, as they can irritate the wound and cause inflammation. Opt for unsweetened, organic and low fat options to give your body the best chance to heal.
Finally, if you are concerned, it is recommended to take a small portion of caffeine and see how your body responds. If it alarms or causes anything unpleasant, you should discontinue and consult your doctor.
What Else can You Replace Coffee with?
Fortunately there are a lot of alternatives to coffee that can give you the same pick-me-up. Opt for herbal tea, decaffeinated coffee, ginger tea, or green tea, which is full of essential vitamins, omega-3 and amino acids to aid recovery.
Alternatively, if hot beverages aren’t appealing after your surgery, surprise your taste buds with a smoothie made with healthy and natural ingredients. This will help your body heal while also providing energy and nutrients.
You can also find substitutions for other caffeinated beverages, such as black tea and energy drinks. In any case, it is always important to talk to your doctor first.
Examples of Foods to Eat After Surgery
If you are still uncomfortable drinking coffee or other beverages after your wisdom teeth surgery, you can try eating these foods for relief:
- Yogurt
- Soft-cooked fruits
- Soft-cooked vegetables
- Smoothies
- Scrambled eggs
- Nut butters
- Fish
- Tofu
- Potato soup
- Hummus and crackers
It is important to eat whatever makes you feel the most comfortable. However, it is also necessary to avoid hard, crunchy and sugary treats, as they can cause inflammation and can increase your risk of infection.
Conclusion
Consulting your doctor is the best way for you to make the right call about when and if coffee should be consumed. As a rule of thumb, moderation and caution should always be exercised.
If you take the necessary precautions, both in terms of food and beverages, you will be able to expedite your healing process and ensure that your wounds stay safe and infection-free.
