Most people have their wisdom teeth removed at some point, and the experience can be an uncomfortable one. Recovery time depends on the individual and their procedure, but typically people are given instructions to follow that help with the pain, swelling and sensitivity following the procedure. One of the instructions that practitioners commonly give is to avoid certain foods and drinks. But is coffee one of them?
According to some medical professionals, it is perfectly safe to drink coffee following a wisdom teeth extraction, unless there are health regulations that need to be taken into consideration. Make sure to speak to your dentist or doctor before drinking coffee, as it could be detrimental in some cases.
Medically speaking, there are some concerns with drinking coffee after wisdom teeth removal. It is usually recommended to wait a few days until the mouth has healed before consuming coffee, as it contains some nutrients and minerals that can actually contribute to the healing process. It can also contribute to discoloration and swelling of the area, as well as cause pain and a burning sensation in the mouth.
It is important to note that even though caffeine can be beneficial for some, it can be a hindrance for others. If you have post-operative swelling or a high temperature, it is best to avoid drinking coffee for at least a week or two. Additionally, pure black coffee can be quite bitter, and the acidity can worsen the taste and cause pain in the area. A lukewarm cup of coffee or some kind of flavoured creamers may be more suited after your wisdom tooth removal.
Another concern is dental work that needs to be done after the removal of wisdom teeth, such as filling cavities or repairing broken teeth. Coffee can stain the teeth, which can make it difficult to detect any damage and carry out the necessary dental work. Although it is not recommended to drink coffee while waiting to have dental work done, it can be beneficial if that dental work will be in the future.
It is important to check with your dentist or doctor before drinking coffee after a wisdom teeth extraction. In some cases, it may be best to wait until your mouth has completely healed and all of the stitches have been removed. Additionally, if you experience any pain, swelling or sensitivity after drinking coffee, it is best to limit or discontinue it altogether and speak to your doctor.
Pain Management
It is common to experience pain, swelling and sensitivity following a wisdom tooth extraction. It is important to speak to your dentist or doctor about any pain medications that can be taken to get through the recovery period. Over-the-counter pain medications, such as Ibuprofen, can be helpful in relieving the pain and swelling that are associated with the procedure. Additionally, taking a hot compress to the affected area can help with the pain in some cases.
Drinking Water
It is important to stay hydrated following a wisdom teeth extraction. Drinking plenty of water helps to flush the wound and keep it clean. Additionally, drinking water helps to reduce swelling, which can make the recovery period more comfortable. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, as well as avoid using straws, as the sucking motion can dislodge the clots that are necessary for healing.
Protecting the Area
It is important to protect the area that was operated on following a wisdom teeth extraction. This means avoiding any strenuous activity, such as exercise or sports, for at least a few days. Additionally, it is important to avoid any foods that are too spicy, sticky or crunchy, as these can make the pain worse. Make sure to stick to soft foods and drinks for a few days, such as yogurt, soup or smoothies.
Following the Instructions
Make sure to follow the instructions given by your dentist or doctor in order to ensure a quick and successful recovery. This means taking all of the prescribed medications, avoiding certain foods and drinks, and following the aftercare instructions closely. It is also important to keep all follow-up appointments with your doctor, as they will be able to give you further advice on how to care for the area and protect it from any further pain or infection.
