Do you have your wisdom teeth out and are worried about what to eat afterward? Don’t panic! Getting your wisdom teeth removed can be a daunting experience but with the right information, it doesn’t have to be. Having a good understanding of what foods are safe after such a procedure will help ensure that recovery is as fast and successful as possible. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know about eating after having your wisdom teeth removed so that you can return to normal life quickly and safely!
The Bottom Line (Placed at the Top for Your Convenience)
Here’s the bottom line regarding what to eat after wisdom teeth removal. Truthfully, as soon as you feel comfortable eating certain foods, you are allowed to do so. For many, this can be as early as the day after surgery, while others may need to wait a few days.
When choosing what foods to eat, the key is to listen to your body’s own cues. If you are in pain when eating, stop, reassess, and try a different approach. You can also try focusing on soft and/or easy-to-chew foods that do not require a lot of force to consume. In the days after surgery, bleeding is not uncommon and is typically not seen as a cue to stop unless it increases more than normal.
After having surgery, the most important thing is to maintain a healthy diet and get lots of sleep in order to promote healing. Getting enough protein, vitamins, and minerals is essential for wound healing. Similarly, getting enough sleep helps to reduce inflammation and provides your body with the necessary energy it needs for recovery.
11 Best Foods to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal
After removing wisdom teeth, it is important to follow your dentist’s recommendations for what to eat. That being said, here are some specific food options to consider after wisdom teeth removal:
- Soups and broths: These can be a good choice because they are soft and easy to chew. Canned soups are convenient and come in various flavors, such as chicken noodle, tomato basil, and potato. Just make sure not to heat them up too much if your mouth is numb.
- Yogurt: Yogurt is an excellent source of protein and can help boost your immune system. It also has a creamy texture that can be easier to eat than other foods. They also come in different flavors, such as blueberry, peach, and cherry.
- Smoothies: Blended fruit and vegetable smoothies provide essential nutrients while also being easy to consume if your mouth is still sore. Just make sure not to drink it through a straw in the first 48 hours.
- Eggs: Eggs are a great source of protein and have a soft texture, making them easy to eat. They can be cooked in various ways so that you can find a preparation that best suits your needs.
- Mashed potatoes: Mashed potatoes are a soft and comforting food that many people love. It’s also a great source of carbohydrates, which can help you feel energized and focused.
- Applesauce: Applesauce is a great option after wisdom teeth removal as it’s easy to chew and also contains healthy vitamins and minerals. You can either buy it pre-made or make your own version at home.
- Soft fruits: Soft fruits, such as bananas, can be a good choice after surgery. They provide essential nutrients while also being easy to chew. Just make sure not to eat fruits with a hard skin, such as apples or oranges.
- Pasta: Soft-cooked pasta is another good option to consider after wisdom teeth removal. It’s easy to chew and also comes in various shapes and sizes. Like mashed potatoes, it’s also a good source of carbohydrates.
- Rice: Rice is a staple food in many cultures and can be a great choice after wisdom teeth removal. Contrary to popular belief, you can eat rice after wisdom teeth removal! It’s soft and easy to chew, and it can also be prepared in various ways.
- Ice Cream: Ice cream is a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed after wisdom teeth removal. It’s creamy and delicious, and the cold temperature can help soothe any pain or inflammation. Just make sure not to eat too much, as it’s high in sugar and calories.
- Oatmeal: Oatmeal is another great option for those who have just had wisdom teeth removed. It’s warm, soft, and provides essential nutrients to help promote healing.
How to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal
When eating food after wisdom teeth removal, it is just as important to think about how you eat as it is about what you eat.:
DO NOT Use a Straw
Sucking through a straw creates suction and can loosen the blood clot in your extraction site. Do not use a straw during the first 48 hours after your surgery. This can cause a dry socket which is extremely painful.
DO NOT Eat Hard, Crunchy, or Chewy Foods
Hard or crunchy foods can be difficult to chew and may require too much force, which can damage the area where your tooth was extracted and delay healing. If you are able to eat solid foods, try sticking with soft, easy-to-chew options such as mashed potatoes and cooked vegetables.
DO NOT Eat While Under Local Anesthetic
Generally speaking, it is not recommended to eat while still under the effects of local anesthetic or other sedatives. Eating before the anesthesia has worn off can lead to accidentally biting your lip, tongue, or cheek, which is painful and will require additional healing. However, if you are extremely hungry, it is okay to eat something that doesn’t require a lot of chewing.
Conclusion
Eating after wisdom teeth removal can be difficult, but there are many foods that can provide nutrition while being easy to chew. Soft fruits, smoothies, mashed potatoes and eggs are all good options that require minimal effort. When eating after wisdom teeth removal, it is important to avoid hard or crunchy foods as well as beverages through a straw to prevent dry socket. By following these guidelines, you will be able to enjoy a nutritious and comfortable diet while supporting the healing process.
Disclaimer
The contents of this website, such as text, graphics, images, and other material are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be substituted for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Nothing on this website constitutes the practice of medicine, law or any other regulated profession.
No two mouths are the same, and each oral situation is unique. As such, it isn’t possible to give comprehensive advice or diagnose oral conditions based on articles alone. The best way to ensure you’re getting the best dental care possible is to visit a dentist in person for an examination and consultation.
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