Many of us rely on coffee for a much needed pick-me-up each day. It’s usually assumed that it’s ok to drink coffee even if you’ve just had a wisdom teeth extraction. But, when recovering from this type of dental surgery, drinking coffee may not be the best idea as it can cause several unwanted side effects.
Drinking coffee after dental surgery may irritate the extraction site a day or two after the procedure, according to dental experts. This is primarily due to the acidity of the coffee and its ability to harbour bacteria that can cause an infection. Additionally, the high temperature of coffee may not be suited for the healing process as the wound site needs frequent cold compresses to reduce the swelling.
Furthermore, coffee can cause dry sockets in some people. Also known as alveolar osteitis, this is a condition in which the bone beneath the extraction site fails to heal properly. Dry socket is a common occurrence after wisdom teeth removal as it can be caused by minor external irritations like eating hard foods and smoking cigarettes. Thus, it may be best to avoid coffee to reduce the risk of dry socket and instead reach for an alternative beverage.
It is important to note that some individuals experience sensitivity to cold or hot food after their procedure. Therefore, it is best to opt for a mild temperature beverage like juice or herbal tea. It is best to eat soft foods like smoothies, mashed potatoes and oatmeal as they help to reduce the pressure around the extraction site, making the recovery process faster and easier.
Coffee lovers need not despair as they can return to their beloved pick-me-up provided they wait a few days to ensure that the extraction site has healed properly. Dental professionals usually advise to wait for at least three days before having a hot beverage. At this point, it is safe to resume to drinking coffee and other beverages as the risk of infection is low.
Strawberry milkshake after wisdom teeth removal
Individuals who have had a wisdom teeth extraction may want to enjoy a cold treat and strawberry milkshake is a great option. Since it is cold, it helps to reduce the swelling and can also provide extra nutrients for the body to facilitate recovery. Additionally, the taste and texture of a milkshake can make it easier to eat, particularly if one is experiencing pain or soreness. As a bonus, most milkshakes are made with fresh ingredients so they can provide the body with essential vitamins and minerals.
What to avoid after wisdom teeth removal
Albeit tempting, there are a few things that should be avoided after a wisdom teeth extraction. Alcohol should particularly be avoided as it can interfere with the healing process and can even increase the risk of infection. Additionally, patients should take care when consuming food as some items may be too hard or tough and can cause pain to the wound site. Foods such as popcorn, chips, raw vegetables and tough meats should be avoided after a wisdom teeth removal.
Adequate Sleep
Gettinh an adequate amount of sleep is essential when recovering from dental surgery as it helps to repair the body and facilitate a quick recovery. Sleeping can allow the body to heal faster and can help to reduce the risk of infection. Many healthcare experts recommend getting a minimum of seven hours of sleep a night and napping during the day if necessary.
Oral Hygiene After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Taking care of your oral hygiene can be hard to do, but it is especially important post-wisdom teeth removal as it can help to reduce the risk of infection. It is recommended to brush your teeth at least twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. Ideally, brushing should take place after meals to reduce the amount of bacteria on the teeth. Additionally, flossing should be done weekly to remove food particles from the gums.
Limit Physical Activity
After wisdom teeth removal, it is best to avoid strenuous activities as they can lead to bleeding and can cause harm to the extraction site. Individuals should take it easy for the first seven to ten days and then gradually increase their physical activity. However, it is important to listen to your body and not overdo it. Exercising can help with the recovery process but it is important to take the proper precautions after a dental surgery.
