Coffee is one of the most popular drinks on the planet, but you may be wondering how long you should wait before enjoying this beverage after having a tooth pulled. After a tooth extraction, it’s crucial to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions precisely to prevent infection and ensure that the wound heals properly. Here’s why you should wait a while before enjoying a cup of coffee after having your tooth pulled.
What Complications Can Happen After a Tooth Extraction?
After a tooth is removed, a blood clot will form over the empty socket to protect the vulnerable tissues within. If this blood clot is dislodged or fails to form properly, the result is a severely painful condition known as dry socket which involves the nerves, bone mass, and soft tissues within the socket being exposed to the air and the oral environment. Since coffee has a dehydrating effect, drinking it can decrease saliva production and make the patient more likely to develop this miserable condition. It’s best to avoid coffee for a few days after a tooth extraction.
When Can I Drink Coffee After Tooth Extraction?
As long as your recovery process is progressing well, you should wait at least five days before enjoying another cup of coffee after extraction. However, you should only consume this beverage in small amounts at first. Your swelling should be significantly reduced after two weeks, and you should then be able to return to your normal coffee-drinking habits.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
With the proper care after a tooth extraction, you can avoid complications and ensure that your recovery goes as smoothly as possible. Keep in mind the following tips during your healing process:
- Abstain from using tobacco or alcohol
- Avoid vigorous rinsing
- Do not use a straw for the first few days
- Gently rinsing with warm salt water after the first twenty-four hours can help keep the wound clean
- Use an ice pack or cold compress to treat swelling
- Brush and floss normally, but take care to avoid the extraction site
- Take any prescribed medications as directed
Coffee is an everyday habit for many people, but enjoying it too soon after extraction can have unpleasant consequences. By staying away from java for the first five days, you can increase your chances of a smooth recovery.
About the Dentist
Dr. Vincenzo Artino earned his dental degree at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine and has completed countless hours of continuing education courses. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the Metro Denver Dental Society. His office in Lakewood, CO offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as tooth extractions. To learn more about tooth extraction aftercare, contact his office online or dial (303) 238-2800.