Many people start their mornings with a cup of their favorite coffee. It can give you the energy you need to get through the day! However, if you just had a tooth extracted, you should avoid this beverage for a bit. It can cause some complications with your healing after your procedure. Continue reading to learn how and when you can have this liquid gold once again.
Why Should I Avoid Coffee After a Tooth Extraction?
When you have a tooth removed, your body will fill that empty socket with a blood clot. It helps keep the area clean while protecting the sensitive nerve endings. It can dissolve or dislodge, creating a dry socket, which is often very painful.
If you drink anything too hot or acidic, it can affect the needed blood clot. Coffee is both of these things, so it can irritate your extraction site. Not only that, but it can also cause dry mouth. You won’t be able to produce enough saliva to wash away harmful bacteria. You increase the risk of an infection while also slowing down your recovery.
When Is It Safe to Drink Coffee Again?
In short, it’s recommended you wait at least five days before having a cup of joe. You’ll give your body enough time to get through the initial healing and reduce your risk of dry socket. That being said, you may want it a bit sooner. You should still avoid it for the first couple of days, but then you can maybe drink lukewarm coffee or cold brew.
Stick to small sips and alternate with water, but avoid using a straw. Your recovery shouldn’t really be affected, but if you notice any irritation, then you need to stop. Continue having it despite discomfort can cause delays in your healing. This can make you wait even longer before you can fully enjoy coffee!
What Else Can I Have While Recovering?
It might seem a bit cliché, but the best thing to drink is water. It’s gentle and keeps your mouth moist. But you may still want some flavor, which is totally understandable. Here are some tasty options:
- Smoothies
- Clear soups
- Cool herbal teas
- Fruit-infused water
Just be sure not to drink any of them with a straw since it can dislodge the healing blood clot! They may not give you the same feeling as coffee, but they can keep your mouth safe until you can get back to having liquid gold.
About the Author
Dr. Jay Lopez earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Colorado Health Science Center School of Dentistry. With over 25 years of experience, he is happy to help the Tucson community with their oral health. Although a tooth extraction can be worrying, Dr. Lopez is here to make it as comfortable as possible, even offering conscious sedation if needed. If you have any questions about your recovery after this procedure, schedule an appointment or call his office at (520) 886-8090.