Can I Drink Tea or Coffee after Tooth Extraction?

After a tooth extraction comes the post-op healing. This is an important time, as your mouth has a wound yet to close. You are probably itching to get back to normal life, but it is not quite that simple. There are some things you will have to set aside as you make your way back to pain-free living.

To avoid complications, you should not drink tea or coffee after a tooth extraction. Navigating your recovery can be difficult, but you will enjoy your favourite caffeine fixes in time. If you need more guidance on what to eat and drink after a tooth extraction, you can always count on your dentist. 

The Problems with Tea & Coffee After Tooth Extraction

Tea is considered a time-honoured healer by many. It can offer comfort and even some post-op advantages, like antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. However, not all teas bring these benefits when consumed during tooth extraction recovery.

Similarly, many people rely on their morning coffee to jumpstart their day, but it can do more harm than good while you are healing.

The reason you need to avoid tea and coffee is fairly straightforward—they’re both hot. Hot liquids can increase blood flow, making it harder for your blood to clot and making the wound bleed again.

Coffee is also highly acidic, a property that can be harsh on the mouth and slow the healing process. To be safe, avoid coffee and tea for at least a week after extraction.

Other Beverages to Consider & Avoid

Hydration is key, especially during extraction recovery, meaning you should not cut all liquids out of your diet. Water is your friend during this stage. You will have to wait until you can remove the gauze, but after that, you can consume water freely.

However, some drinks you should avoid after a tooth extraction include:

• Alcohol
• Milk
• Soda
• Any hot liquid
• Juice

A good general rule is to avoid anything hot or containing too much sugar as the bad bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar and multiply. This can be dangerous while your mouth is vulnerable. While beverages like juice are full of healthy nutrients, they are also full of sugar.

Overall, water is one of the best ways to keep your mouth hydrated and safe after a tooth extraction.

Tips for Post-Tooth Extraction Care

Your dentist or surgeon will send you home with care tips during your recovery. Following these instructions promotes a smoother recovery while also reducing the risk of complications.

You will typically feel some pain once the freezing has worn off. This is normal, though the amount of discomfort can vary from person to person. The soreness should fade after 3–5 days. If your dentist prescribes medication, ensure you take it exactly as instructed.

It’s also common to notice some bleeding after the surgery. If there is some red on the gauze while changing it, that is not necessarily a cause for concern. However, you should call your dentist if you cannot control the bleeding and it has been at least 4 hours since your surgery.

Here are some tips to help you navigate your post-surgery care:

• Maintain Oral Hygiene: Keep your mouth clean while being gentle around the surgery site. 24 hours after surgery, you can start rinsing with salt water 4 or 5 times a day.
• Eat Soft Foods: Stick to soft, nutritious foods like yogurt, smoothies, and cool soups. These are easy to consume and packed with vitamins that aid in the healing process.
• Use a Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to your face in the first 24 hours helps reduce swelling and discomfort. Wrap ice cubes in a towel or borrow a pack of frozen vegetables from the freezer.
• Rest: Give your body the time it needs to heal. Avoid strenuous activities that can increase blood pressure and disrupt the clotting process.

On the other hand, you should avoid the following:

• Sucking Motions: Activities like using a straw, smoking, or vigorous rinsing can dislodge the blood clot, leading to painful dry sockets.
• Hot Beverages and Foods: In the immediate days following surgery, avoid hot foods and drinks that can aggravate the wound.
• Hard and Crunchy Foods: Hard, sharp, or crunchy foods can irritate or harm the surgery site, potentially leading to infection.
• Poking or Prodding the Area: It might be tempting to explore the area with your tongue or fingers, but this can interfere with the healing process and introduce bacteria.

We Are Here to Help You Heal

Your post-extraction days are a blend of caution and comfort-seeking. While the lure of your favourite hot beverage is strong, it is important to consider its impact on your unique recovery. Be mindful of your choices, and remember, this is just a temporary change. In due time, you can clink your mug in celebration of both the day’s achievements and your resilient, radiant smile.If you have any concerns or questions about your tooth extraction, don’t hesitate to contact our South Ancaster Family Dental team. We can offer personalized guidance for swift healing.