When Can I Drink Coffee After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Having your wisdom teeth removed can be uncomfortable, and the healing process after surgery can take several weeks. One issue you may have is when it is ok to drink coffee (or other beverages containing caffeine) after a wisdom tooth extraction.
Caffeine: A No-No for Early Healing
Since caffeine is a known tissue irritant, it isn’t widely recommended that you drink coffee for at least the first 24 hours following surgery. In the early days, your body is trying to form a clot over the gums to help protect your teeth from infection, and drinking coffee during this time can disrupt this process and delay healing.
Caffeine After 24 Hours
Once the 24 hour post-surgery period has passed, it is generally ok to have one cup of coffee per day, provided it is not too hot and is consumed responsibly. Coffee can dehydrate the body due to its diuretic effects, so it is important to ensure that plenty of water is taken with it and to limit the quantity consumed.
Possible Side Effects
Although having the odd cup of coffee won’t necessarily hinder the healing process, it can cause an increase in inflammation or bleeding from the surgery site. If you develop any of the following symptoms, it is best to stop drinking coffee and consult with your dentist or oral surgeon for further advice:
- Swelling or tenderness of the gums
- Pain or sensitivity around the extraction site
- An increase in the level of bleeding from the wound
- Unpleasant taste in your mouth
- Excessive dryness of the mouth
Conclusion
You should never have coffee in the first 24 hours following wisdom teeth removal, as it can disrupt the healing process. After this time, one cup per day is generally ok, but if you experience any uncomfortable side effects, it’s best to stop drinking coffee and consult with your dentist.
