The craving for coffee is real. For millions of people around the world, it serves as a daily ritual- whether it’s the first cup to kickstart the morning or a soothing decaf option to relax in the evening. However, if you’ve recently had one or more teeth extracted, it’s wise to refrain from indulging in java. Here is why you should avoid it as well as recommended beverages instead.
Why Can’t I Have Coffee After a Tooth Extraction?
Here’s the skinny: After you have a tooth taken out, your body forms a clot in the socket to stop the bleeding and allow your mouth to heal below the surface of the gums. Hot beverages, like your beloved coffee, can dislodge the clot and lead to a condition called dry socket.
A dry socket can result in intense pain that may throb throughout your jaw and into your head. It can also lead to bad breath, create an unpleasant taste in your mouth, and make your teeth sensitive to hot and cold foods and beverages.
How Long Until I Can Have Coffee After an Extraction?
You should wait at least 48 hours after having teeth taken out before having hot coffee, though ideally, 5 days should give the extraction site time to heal.
If you’re a lover of the magic beans, you’ll be pleased to know you can enjoy an iced coffee just 24 hours after the operation! However, do not use a straw when drinking iced coffee or any other beverage. Using a straw requires a sucking motion in the mouth that can dislodge the blood clot protecting the socket of the newly removed tooth.
What Should I Drink Instead of Coffee?
There are several drinks you can enjoy after an extraction, including:
- Water
- Juice
- Milk
- Lukewarm herbal teas
- Non-acidic fruit drinks like watermelon or pear
You should avoid things like:
- Carbonated beverages, like soda
- Alcohol
- Hot drinks
- Drinks that are high in acidity, like citrus fruit juices or sports drinks
While you may miss out on your hot cup of coffee for a few days, be patient – you’ll be back to ordering lattes in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Admasu Gizachew (“Dr. G” to his patients) is a graduate of New York University and completed dental implant training at Rutgers University. He has won top dentist awards in both New York and New Jersey in consecutive years and is committed to staying current with the latest dental practices, logging nearly 300 hours of continuing education every year! Learn more about tooth extraction and other services or schedule your appointment with Staten Island Oral Surgery Center online, or call their office at (718) 568-0405.