If you’re a coffee fan but scheduled to have a tooth removed, you may be wondering how soon you can get back to your daily cup (or cups!) of joe. The truth is, when you have an extraction, you do need to temporarily hold off on the java for a few important reasons. Here’s why you should take a break from your daily “grind” and when it’s okay to indulge again.
Why You Should Cut Coffee
Coffee has a special way of warming and waking you up that no other beverage can compete with. But unfortunately, it does this by giving you a powerful jolt of caffeine. Under normal circumstances, this is no big deal but following a tooth extraction caffeine can cause problems like elevated blood pressure that can make it harder for a clot to form. Furthermore, drinking hot fluids can raise your risk of developing dry socket, a painful condition that occurs when the clot falls out and the incision reopens.
Keep Your Cool
Within about 24 hours, you can return to your regularly scheduled coffee, however you should stick to room temperature or iced. It’s best to wait at least five days before adding piping hot java back to your diet, as your mouth will still be quite sensitive, and you still will be at risk for dry socket. Just be sure that no matter what you drink, you don’t use a straw, as that can increase your odds for dry socket, too.
What Can I Drink After a Tooth Extraction?
If you’re looking for other options to drink following your tooth extraction, here are some safe choices:
- Water (first 24 hours)
After 24 hours:
- Sports drinks
- Milk
- Juice
For anything else including hot coffee, alcohol, or soda, it is best to wait at least five days, or until your dentist approves it.
Remember, while it’s definitely not fun having to skip your daily cup of coffee to recover from a tooth extraction, the good news is that it’s only temporary. Thankfully, the more closely you comply with your aftercare instructions, the sooner you’ll be feeling better and can get back to the foods and beverages you love!
About Our Practice
At OakBrook Dental & Orthodontics, we offer a full range of dental treatments right here in our convenient McKinney location. If you need a tooth extracted, we know it can be stressful and you may have a lot of questions about the treatment and aftercare, which is why we work hard to ensure that you have the right information to help make the entire process go as smoothly as possible.
To schedule a consultation for a tooth extraction, please visit our website or call us today at 469-526-4040.