Getting a tooth extracted can be an unpleasant experience. The aftermath can also be uncomfortable as the site heals. With the extraction site irritated, many patients wonder if they can drink cold beverages or if the temperature extremes will negatively impact healing.
Can I drink cold drinks after a tooth extraction?
Yes, you can drink cold drinks after a tooth extraction, but it’s best to avoid extremely cold or hot temperatures. Lukewarm or room temperature drinks are ideal as the extraction site heals.
Drinking very cold liquids right after a tooth extraction can cause some discomfort. The cold temperature can irritate the fresh extraction site and make it more prone to bleeding. Very hot drinks can have a similar effect.
However, completely avoiding all cold drinks is often unrealistic and unnecessary. The key is to be mindful of temperature as you heal.
Tips for drinking cold drinks after an extraction
Here are some tips for slowly and comfortably integrating cold drinks after a tooth extraction:
- Wait at least 2 hours after the extraction to drink anything cold. This gives the site some time to begin clotting and recover from the procedure.
- Start with cool or lukewarm drinks first. Don’t go straight for ice water or icy soda.
- Use a straw placed toward the back of your mouth to minimize contact with the extraction area.
- Add ice cubes gradually over several days as the extraction site heals.
- Avoid holding ice cold drinks directly on the extraction area. The extreme cold can irritate it.
- Stay hydrated with lukewarm water in the first 24 hours. Proper hydration promotes healing.
If a tooth was surgically extracted (rather than a simple extraction), you may need to be extra cautious with cold drinks due to a larger surgical site.
Why you should avoid very hot drinks
Just like very cold temperatures, drinking very hot liquids right after a tooth extraction is not recommended. Extreme heat can irritate the fresh extraction site.
Hot coffee, tea, or soup can promote bleeding and discomfort. Allow foods and drinks to cool to a warm temperature as the mouth heals.
Does the type of drink matter?
More than the type of drink, it’s the temperature that matters most after an extraction. However, some beverages are better choices as the mouth heals.
Here are some tooth-friendly tips for beverage choices after extractions:
- Avoid alcohol, as it can interact with pain medication and delay healing.
- Skip soda or other sugary drinks. The sugar can promote bacteria growth.
- Stay hydrated with water, diluted juices, milk, or herbal teas.
- Avoid drinking through a straw during the first 24 hours to avoid dislodging the clot.
- Drink beverages slowly instead of gulping to minimize pressure on the extraction site.
How long should I avoid very hot or cold drinks?
It’s smart to avoid temperature extremes for at least the first 24 hours after the tooth extraction. This gives the blood clot time to form and protect the area.
However, you’ll want to remain mindful of hot and cold temperatures for several days as the socket continues to heal:
- Days 1-3: Stick to lukewarm or room temperature drinks only. Avoid direct contact between ice cold drinks and the extraction site.
- Days 4-7: You can start to gradually add in cooler drinks with ice cubes, but take small sips to minimize irritation.
- After day 7: The extraction site should be healing well enough to handle cold drinks. But avoid holding them directly on the area for too long.
If pain or bleeding flare up when drinking cold beverages, go back to lukewarm temperatures until fully healed.
When to call the dentist
It’s normal to experience some discomfort when drinking cold or hot liquids after an extraction. However, call the dentist if you experience:
- Bleeding that won’t stop
- Severe pain that medication does not relieve
- Foul taste or odor from the extraction site
- Visible bone fragments in the socket
- Fever, chills, or swelling that worsens over time
These may be signs of a problem like dry socket or infection requiring additional treatment.
Other tips for managing after a tooth extraction
Along with watching what you drink, here are some other tips for a smooth recovery after a tooth extraction:
- Take any prescribed antibiotics or pain medication as directed.
- Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to keep the area clean.
- Eat soft, lukewarm foods like soups, mashed potatoes, or cooked grains.
- Avoid spitting, smoking, drinking through a straw, or other actions that dislodge the blood clot.
- Rest as needed, limiting physical activity for at least 24 hours.
Conclusion
Drinking beverages that are too cold or too hot can irritate and delay healing after a tooth extraction. Lukewarm drinks are best for the first 3-7 days. Slowly add in cooler drinks as the site improves. But continue to avoid very hot liquids or holding ice cubes directly on the area while it finishes healing. With proper care, the extraction site should heal smoothly and you’ll be back to normal eating and drinking before you know it.
