For some, drinking coffee is practically a pastime in and of itself. There’s just something cozy and comforting about kicking back to relax with a warm cup of pumpkin spice. However, if you were planning on grabbing your favorite brew and hanging out with your friends after your tooth extraction, you’ll probably want to take a raincheck. Coffee, especially hot coffee, can seriously complicate your treatment recovery.
To learn why this popular drink should be avoided after a tooth extraction, keep reading. You might discover that you agree!
Your Friendly-Neighborhood Blood Clot
Blood clots are typically associated with bad medical complications, so it makes sense if you’re confused. Congealed blood can definitely be a problem, but in some cases your body produces clots to prevent excessive blood loss. That’s true for your extraction site.
After your tooth is pulled, it naturally leaves behind a small hole in your gums. Now, this hole would be a great hiding spot for bacteria and infection, if it weren’t for the blood clot that forms over the opening. With this makeshift dam in place, your gums and teeth are ultimately safer.
The Problem with Caffeine
As a chemical, caffeine affects how your body functions. It enlarges your blood vessels and increases your blood pressure, which can cause excessive bleeding and make recovery more difficult. Plus, it can keep you awake when you should be giving your body a chance to rest.
The Problem with Heat – And Straws
As it turns out, hot beverages can cause dry socket. This painful condition occurs when your extraction-site blood clot either fails to form properly or becomes dislodged. Suffice it to say that having exposed nerve clusters isn’t fun.
Drinking through a straw creates enough suction in your mouth to also cause dry socket, so don’t try to sneak a warm cup of joe past your extraction site that way. You’ll be glad you waited for your wound to heal before rekindling your coffee habit.
When Can I Enjoy Coffee Again?
Basically, when your dentist says it’s safe. Generally speaking, you can expect this to take about five days, but that’s not exactly a guarantee. It all depends on your body – and how closely you follow your dentist’s post-op care instructions.
If you’re feeling confident around the five-day mark, give your dentist a call before sitting down with your favorite latte or mocha. Remember, disturbing your friendly-neighborhood blood clot or aggravating your extraction site can prolong your recovery time, so it’s in your best interest to double-check with your dentist!
About the Practice
Our compassionate and friendly team at La Prada Family Dentistry of Garland prioritizes patient comfort. That’s why we want to help ensure your tooth extraction recovery goes as smoothly as possible! Even after your treatment, you can count on us to keep you informed about caring for your extraction site and addressing any questions or concerns you might have. To contact our office, call 214-227-6577.
