How Hot Coffee After Tooth Extraction Can Hurt!

Facing disruptions to your routine can be tough, especially if you’re practically addicted to coffee and need to go without it for a while. When you get a tooth extracted, your dentist will strongly urge you not to drink hot beverages including coffee for about five days. If this idea shocks you and fills you with dread, make sure you fully understand the healing process after this procedure and how to keep complications to a minimum.

Why Can’t I Have Coffee Soon After Tooth Extraction?

Above all else, if you want to heal properly from a tooth extraction, you must allow and preserve a blood clot on the surgical site. This small covering protects the underlying nerves from bacteria, extreme temperature, and other irritants. Should this clot come off before the tissues have healed, you’ll likely experience severe pain, an infection called dry socket, or other issues.

Unfortunately, the clot’s place can be tenuous in the beginning, and it is sensitive to extreme temperatures. As a result, coffee can result in both pain and more problems in the healing process. In addition to the temperature of the coffee, the caffeine can give you energy and jitters when you should be relaxing and resting. Taking it easy allows your body to restore itself and focus on recovery.

What Can I Have After Tooth Extraction?

You will not be expected to avoid eating or drinking at all. In fact, to get as much strength as you can, you’re encouraged to stay hydrated and properly nourished. Beverages closer to room temperature and soft foods are perfectly okay to enjoy.

Starting around five days after the procedure, you can begin to reintroduce regular foods back into your diet but take it slow. Choose slightly softer foods and build back to your normal diet over time.

What Other Rules Should I Follow When Recovering from Tooth Extraction?

Another imperative instruction to follow to keep the blood clot in position is to avoid using a straw for at least 48 hours. Sucking or strong spitting will dislodge the clot. To reduce any discomfort, elevate your head above your heart, take pain reliever as directed, and apply a cold compress to your face in 20-minute increments to help with swelling.

Even if you crave your cup of joe, resist temptation and steer clear of it until five days after your tooth extraction. A little discipline and sacrifice in the short term can make your recovery faster and smoother than indulging and facing pain and infection. Before you know it, you’ll be able to sip your coffee again without any problem!

About the Practice

Amherst Dental Group does everything we can to preserve natural teeth whenever possible. However, our dentists have advanced training in complex procedures and treatments for times when such measures are necessary. We go the extra mile to make sure our patients remain comfortable and receive helpful instructions for smooth recovery. If you have questions about aftercare for tooth extractions, get in touch with us through our website or call our Williamsville office at 716-689-8882.