Can I Drink Coffee After Having My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Having a wisdom teeth extraction is not exactly something to look forward to, especially if it means missing out on your morning cup of coffee. But is it actually safe to drink coffee soon after getting your wisdom teeth removed? Depending on who you ask, you will get different answers, so it is important to make an informed decision.
According to a study published in the Academy of General Dentistry, there is a higher risk of developing dry socket syndrome after wisdom teeth removal if caffeine is consumed. Dry socket syndrome is a common complication and symptoms include pain, bad breath and a pungent smell from the mouth. A person may also experience ringing in their ears, fever and extreme headaches.
Experts suggest that it is better to wait for at least 72 hours after removing your wisdom teeth before you drink coffee. This is to allow for the surgery site to heal properly and to decrease the risk of developing dry socket syndrome and infection. If you are using local anesthesia for the surgery, wait for a few days before you drink coffee as it can reduce the effects of the anesthetic.
When you feel you are ready to drink coffee after the period of abstinence, be mindful of the type of coffee you are drinking. Caffeine can slow down the healing process, so opt for coffee alternatives such as decaf, turmeric tea and turmeric lattes. Also, if you must have your coffee, try not to swish it around your mouth, which can irritate the wound site by disturbing the clot and preventing further healing.
Pain relief medications can cause drowsiness, so it is best to stick to caffeine-free drinks such as smoothies and fruit juices. If you must have coffee, wait for the pain to subside and make sure that the coffee is cooled off before it comes in contact with the site of your wisdom teeth extraction. Swishing the coffee around in your mouth can increase the risk of infection, so take small sips and avoid attempting to do anything strenuous or challenging that may cause any possible mouth or jaw discomfort.
Diet After Wisdom Teeth Removal
In general, a soft diet for about two to four weeks after wisdom teeth removal is recommended. This is to reduce the risk of infection and make sure that the extraction site can heal properly. This means avoiding hard, crunchy and spicy foods as far as possible. Soft foods such as yogurt, oatmeal, cottage cheese and mashed potatoes can be consumed. Also, stay away from carbonated and acidic drinks, such as soft drinks, energy drinks and juices, as they may cause discomfort.
Experts also advise against eating any sweets and candies, especially those that are sticky, as this can also disturb the healing process. Smoking and drinking alcohol should also be avoided because they can slow down the healing process. Keeping these restrictions in mind, there is still a variety of foods, desserts and drinks that you can consume without risking a delayed healing process.
Instilling Good Oral Hygiene Practices
Having wisdom teeth removed is a big task, and it is important to rehab and protect one’s oral health in the process. After surgery, it is important to practice good oral hygiene practices, as this will promote quicker and healthier healing. This includes rinsing your mouth with salt water for a few days after the procedure, as this helps reduce inflammation and encourages the healing process.
It is also essential to brush and floss the area around and behind the newly extracted teeth to remove any food particles and plaque. This helps to avoid complications such as infections and dry socket syndrome. Smoking and drinking should also not be resumed for at least two weeks.
Get Regular Check-Ups After Wisdom Teeth Removal
After getting your wisdom teeth removed, it is important to be mindful and make sure that the healing process is going well. This means getting regular check-ups and consulting with your dentist to ensure that your mouth is healing properly. They can inform you if there are any signs of infection or if something is wrong.
Your dentist will be able to provide tips about how to best care for your mouth. This can include the type of food and drinks you can consume, and tips on how to avoid infection. If you experience any signs of infection such as pain, swelling and bad breath, contact your dentist immediately.
Complications from Wisdom Teeth Removal
Although complications from wisdom teeth removal are rare, it is important to be aware of them. Some of the potential complications include infection, dry socket syndrome, damaged or sensitive nerves, numbness, damage to the jaw bone or other teeth, and difficulty in opening the mouth wide. Therefore, it is important to be informed and follow the necessary steps to avoid any kind of complications.
Most complications can be avoided with a good post-operative care plan, regular check-ups, proper cleaning and follow-up care. Strictly following the instructions from the healthcare provider is key to avoiding a wide range of potential issues.
When Can You Resume Normal Activities?
The recovery period for the extraction of wisdom teeth varies from person to person, depending on their overall health. Generally, one can expect to feel completely healed within two to four weeks after the procedure. Generally speaking, it is best to wait at least two weeks before attempting to return to normal activities, such as sports and exercise.
As with all surgeries, a period of rest and relaxation is necessary. Even after this period, it is important to go at a slow pace and to avoid any activity that could put the healing site at risk. Physical activities, particularly high-intensity activities, can aggravate the wound site and cause discomfort. Listen to your body, be patient and follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
Will You Need Help After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
After having your wisdom teeth removed, you may need assistance from family or friends during the initial period of recovery. If the procedure was done under general anesthesia, you may require someone to pick you up and bring you home after the surgery. After you come home, you may need help with household chores and meals, as it is important to allow yourself plenty of rest.
Your sense of taste may also be altered and your diet may be limited to soft foods, so having someone else prepare meals for you can make the healing process easier. It is also recommended to get someone to help monitor your oral health and any possible signs of infection or delayed healing. Having someone to talk to can also be beneficial during this time.
