Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that emerge during late adolescence or young adulthood. Sometimes, wisdom teeth do not have enough room in the mouth to come through, leading to pain and swelling. In these cases, the wisdom teeth will need to be removed through an extraction procedure.
Coffee is well known for providing a caffeinated energy boost, thanks to its active ingredient, caffeine. But when is it safe to start drinking coffee after wisdom tooth extraction?
As with any major dental procedure, it is important to follow the post-operative instructions of both your dentist and oral surgeon. Generally, it is advised to avoid hot liquids for the first 24 hours post-surgery, as hot liquids can increase the risk of bleeding and interfere with the healing processes.
In terms of exact timing of when it is safe to drink coffee, most dentists and oral surgeons suggest that patients can start drinking it after two to three days following wisdom tooth extraction. This waiting period will allow the wound to heal and any swelling to reduce. If you experience pain while drinking coffee after the recommended waiting period, you should inform your dentist so that they can assess the situation.
For patients who find it difficult to wait several days before drinking coffee again, it is possible to create beverages with lower temperatures, such as iced coffee. Low-temperature coffee beverages are less likely to cause increased bleeding, but you should still keep an eye out for any abnormal swelling or pain.
One of the most important tips to remember is to avoid using straws and vigorous sucking motions when drinking beverages after wisdom tooth extraction. Straws and strong sucking motions can pull the blood clot away from the extraction site, opening the wound and delaying the healing process. Remember to drink your coffee slowly without using a straw.
It is also important to pay attention to the type of coffee you are drinking. When you start drinking it again after extraction, try to limit your intake of tea, sodas and energy drinks, which are all acidic. Acidic beverages can reduce the pH of saliva and saliva is necessary for proper healing. Instead, opt for coffee drinks with less sugar, or non-acidic non-caffeinated alternatives such as herbal teas.
Pain Management
Pain is to be expected after wisdom tooth removal and can vary depending on the individual. It is advised to take painkillers prior to the procedure to reduce the level of pain afterwards and to follow any pain management instructions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon. Additionally, there are some home remedies that can be used to reduce pain, such as the application of ice packs and cold compresses, taking an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen, and eating soft foods like soup and mashed potatoes.
Planning for the Future
Once the extraction is complete and you return to your daily routine, you should make an appointment with your dentist to check on the progress of the healing process. Make sure to keep up with regular check-ups and follow any instructions provided to promote full recovery. Moreover, you should maintain a good oral hygiene routine to keep your mouth healthy, such as brushing and flossing.
Aftercare Advice
Apart from avoiding vigorous sucking actions and high temperatures for a few days after the procedure, some post-operative instructions remain unchanged. This might include refraining from smoking, drinking alcohol or using carbonated beverages, and eating hard or sticky substances. Additionally, it is important to get plenty of rest and sleep during the first few days after the wisdom teeth have been removed, as this will reduce pain, swelling and infection.
Risks of Drinking Coffee After Extraction
Although coffee can be beneficial when consumed in moderation and on a regular basis, it is important to be aware that it can cause complications if consumed too much or too often. This is especially true after a wisdom tooth extraction. Too much caffeine can increase the risk of further bleeding and swelling, as well as nausea, restlessness, headaches and irritability. Therefore, it is best to stick to an acceptable amount of coffee consumption, as recommended by your dentist or health care provider.
End of Treatment
Once the recommended waiting period has passed, you can start drinking coffee again, albeit in moderation and without putting too much strain on the extraction site. It is important to avoid overconsumption and to pay attention to any signs of pain or swelling, while following the aftercare instructions provided.
