Can I Drink Coffee after Getting my Wisdom Teeth Out?
Having your wisdom teeth removed is a big step for anyone and with it comes aftercare. While it is essential to follow your dentists post-op instructions for healing properly, one common question many people have is can I drink coffee after getting my wisdom teeth out?
Coffee contains caffeine which can cause a surge of energy. However, when it comes to the recovery of your gums, coffee isn’t your best option. It is acidic and can irritate the affected area, causing pain and even swelling. The amount of caffeine in coffee can also often cause someone dehydration if it is consumed in excess.
Dentists and oral surgeons strongly advise not drinking coffee directly after wisdom teeth removal. The residue of coffee that remains on the tooth can increase the risk of infection, and while it may seem harmless, even a quick sip of coffee can irritate the vessels and slow down healing.
Alternative options such as tea and other decaffeinated beverages are generally recommended for consumption as these drinks don’t contain the required amount of caffeine to cause harm. This can still provide some energy boost with the added benefits of regulating the body temperature and improving sleep.
It is important to communicate with an oral surgeon or dentist in order to get the best advice. As all patients are different, the level of fluid, caffeine and other medications may be advised. This can include pain relievers, anti-inflammatories and antibiotics which can affect the overall healing process.
If the patient does wish to drink coffee, waiting for at least two weeks is recommended as beneficial to the recovery process. During this time, it is important to be aware of other potential symptoms which could indirectly lead to irritations such as nausea, drowsiness and gaining weight.
Coffee and its impact on general oral health
Coffee, in general, can be an opportunistic beverage for destroying the tooth enamel and therefore expose the dentin. Therefore, for those who experience frequent wisdom teeth discomfort must be especially cautious when drinking coffee after removal in order not to delay the healing.
In addition, it has been shown that coffee affects the stress hormone, cortisol, in the body. If this substance is produced in excess it can have a negative impact on the tooth enamel and accelerate the egg-shell like fragility of the teeth.
Therefore, even without having to go through a surgical procedure, it is important to carefully pay attention to the type and amount of coffee intake as it can have detrimental effects if it goes unmonitored.
Caffeine ingested through food and infused substances
It is important to note that caffeine can be found in a variety of other items and not just traditional coffee. Caffeinated beverages such as energy drinks, include stimulants and artificial energy radicals which, like coffee itself, can cause a host of other problems in the body.
However, coffee can also be found in chocolate, nuts and other food items. Therefore, when managing caffeine levels, it is essential to keep an eye on other substances as well as traditional black coffee.
Ayurvedic influence
Ayurvedic practices view coffee as a beneficial substance. According to their principle, coffee can improve mental health and provide an energy uplift, provided it is consumed in moderation. The Indian culture looks on coffee as an ‘energizer of the heart’ and believes the health benefits can be seen if it is consumed as part of a healthy lifestyle.
Coffee can contain antioxidants and minerals which would naturally improve its overall effect in the body naturally. Therefore, if any adverse effects have been noticed after post-op, it may be sensible to take a different approach to coffee drinking.
Understanding the relevance and risks of drinking coffee after wisdom teeth removal
General research and clinical trials suggest that the appeal of the effects of coffee can vary significantly from one person to the next. Allergies and other similar reactions to caffeine can add to the irritability of the affected area, meaning the body may have to go through a longer healing process.
Therefore, it is important to understand the basics of post-op care and manage the exposure to caffeine and other stimulants, especially when facing something as painful as severe wisdom teeth removal. Taking these steps can lead to successful healing with minimal side effects and allow the patient to enjoy coffee again in short order.
The Healing Process After Wisdom Teeth Removal
It is essential to follow post-op instructions following wisdom teeth removal. As the procedure involves surgery, it is important to take it seriously and avoid any risks that can impede the healing process. Depending on the type of surgery, it is likely a patient will be prescribed medication and other therapies for reducing inflammation and getting the body on a path of recovery.
In order to avoid any disease infections or other related risks, doctors often advise patients to fast for a period of time following the removal of wisdom teeth. This allows the body time to focus on the affected area and help rejuvenate before any other activity is added into the daily routine.
Therefore, it is important to stick to a healing process that allows the body time to respond. A combination of rest and regular painkiller and antibiotics (if prescribed) should get the job done.
Additional Factors to Consider
When managing the post-op period, it is important to consider the impact of other physical activities. Exercising, swimming, playing sports and even coughing can cause a level of discomfort to the patient.
It is likely a patient may still need to engage in light-moderate physical activities such as walking, but intense physical activities and engagements should be avoided for the next couple of weeks until the body has fully recovered.
In addition, it is essential to properly clean the mouth after wisdom teeth removal, as this can help reduce the chance of getting an infection. Warm saline water or antiseptic mouthwashes are generally recommended as they have antiseptic properties.
Managing Stress Levels
Due to its nature, wisdom teeth removal can cause a level of stress and anxiety in some people. As it a major dental procedure, it is important to understand how to manage and cope with the emotional and physical effects in order to overcome it and move on with the recovery process.
It is important to take some time away from any plans and focus on reducing stress. Many people usually take the time to read, watch movies, play video games or engage in activities that don’t involve physical activities. Additionally, it is beneficial to communicate with friends and family as doing so can reduce anxiety and provide positive support.
Understanding Pain Management
Pain is an expected symptom following the removal of wisdom teeth, and as such, it is essential to know how to manage it. If over the counter painkillers such as ibuprofen are not enough to reduce the pain and discomfort, it is important to contact a doctor as they will be able to provide the best advice.
Moreover, the medications prescribed can include narcotic-induced painkillers and other remedies. Depending on the strength of the medication, it is important to keep an eye on the symptoms, reactions and the overall condition of the gums for the following weeks.
