There’s no doubt that millions of people around the world start their day with a cup of coffee. But, if you’ve had a recent tooth extraction, can you still enjoy a hot java? The answer to that question may depend on the type of coffee you’re drinking and the method you use to make it.
Drinking coffee after tooth extraction isn’t a black and white answer. To understand why, it’s important to consider two factors: the temperature of your coffee, and the chemicals present in the beverage.
Most dentists will tell you that consuming warm or hot beverages of any kind should be avoided for a few days following a tooth extraction. This is because extreme temperatures can slow the healing process and even cause inflammation in the extraction site.
However, according to Dr. Joshua Austin, DDS, drinking lukewarm coffee with a straw may be okay so long as it does not contain additional sugar or sweeteners, which can increase the risk of infection. He also recommends that coffee lovers wait at least 24 hours before indulging in their favorite caffeinated beverage.
But coffee isn’t all bad. Recent studies have found that coffee can offer some healthy benefits, including reducing inflammation and promoting gum health. Plus, the caffeine in coffee can help reduce swelling and speed healing.
In light of this, some dentists recommend that people who are looking to enjoy a cup of joe after an extraction should opt for a lower temperature option. Cold-brewed coffee is one of the better choices since it’s typically brewed at room temperature or below and contains fewer chemicals.
But remember, drinking anything too quickly after an extraction can increase the risk of developing a dry socket. To help reduce your risk, take small sips of your lukewarm coffee and always use a straw.
Other Hot Beverages
If you’re looking for alternatives to coffee after an extraction, there are a few other hot beverages that may be safe to consume. Tea is one of the better choices since its caffeine content is relatively low and most varieties don’t contain added sugar. Additionally, chamomile tea is particularly beneficial for healing and has anti-inflammatory properties that may help improve the healing process.
Herbal teas can also provide some health benefits, but they should be drunk without added sweeteners, as these can increase the risk of infection. If you do opt for a sweetened tea, make sure that it has been cooled to lukewarm.
Hot chocolate is also an option, but it may not be the best choice after a tooth extraction. Hot chocolate typically contains a considerable amount of sugar, which can cause complications during the healing process. Additionally, it’s much higher in calories than other hot drinks, making it an unhealthy choice.
Finally, some people opt for warm water after a tooth extraction. This is a great choice for those looking for a beverage that won’t cause any complications during the healing process. Plus, drinking plenty of water can help flush bacteria from the area and reduce inflammation.
Additional Considerations
Before drinking any form of hot beverage after a tooth extraction, speak with your dentist. This will allow you to get expert advice about the types of drinks that are appropriate for your specific recovery process.
You should also be aware of any potential side effects that come with drinking hot beverages. For example, if you experience any pain, bleeding or swelling in the area of your extraction, you should avoid hot beverages and speak to your dentist right away.
It’s also important to note that drinking hot beverages too soon may increase your risk of developing an infection. Since infections can delay the healing process and cause long-term complications, it’s important to wait at least 24 hours before consuming a hot beverage.
Conclusion
So can you drink warm coffee after a tooth extraction? The answer to that question ultimately depends on your individual situation and the type of drink you’re consuming. In most cases, it’s best to avoid hot beverages for 24-48 hours after the procedure, but if you’re feeling brave and want to indulge in a cup of coffee, opt for lukewarm coffee with a straw and no sweeteners.
Coping With Pain
The healing process after a tooth extraction can be uncomfortable, but there are a few steps that you can take to help make the process a little easier.
First, remember to take all medications that your dentist recommends. This
