Foods to Eat and Avoid After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Experiencing pain and discomfort after wisdom teeth removal is common for almost everyone who goes through the extraction process. However, the real challenge is recovering from the pain at the earliest. The tingling or throbbing pain after tooth extraction can feel daunting and make one cranky. The situation worsens during meals. With the numbing pain, munching or even drinking becomes painful. So the food or drinks you choose to have right after the surgery play a role in the healing journey. Let’s check out what to include in your post-extraction diet and what to steer clear of for quick healing.

Soft Foods for Easier Chewing

It’s a no-brainer that you must stick to soft-textured foods after the oral surgery to minimize strain on your gums. Choose items that are gentle and easy to swallow, and won’t irritate the extraction site. The best foods to eat after wisdom tooth extraction are: 

• Mashed potatoes
• Soups (broth-based or creamy)
• Applesauce
• Yogurt 
• Scrambled eggs

Cold Foods to Soothe Pain

While dentists advise you to skip hot meals, they recommend cold foods after dental surgery to reduce swelling and relieve you from the pain and soreness. The best ones in this list are: 

• Ice cream (without crunchy toppings)
• Smoothies (avoid seeds or tough bits)
• Pudding or gelatin desserts
• Frozen yogurt

Be Hydrated

Even though drinking water sometimes stings the surgery site, it’s best to not skip water intake. Staying hydrated helps you in quick recovery. Liquids like water, clear broths, or herbal teas prevent dry mouth and reduce the risk of infection. Just remember to not drink through a straw after the tooth extraction to prevent dry sockets.

Foods to Avoid Completely

As we’ve already detailed the best foods after wisdom teeth extraction, it’s time to shed light on the list of foods that may dislodge blood clots from the removal site, and cause irritation, or delay healing. So stay away from:

• Crunchy foods like chips or nuts
• Hard foods like candy or crusty bread
• Spicy dishes
• Acidic items like citrus fruits or juices
• Sticky foods like caramel or gummy candies

When to Resume Normal Eating

You might wonder when you can start enjoying your favorite dishes without the risk of causing pain and discomfort. Dentists suggest gradually reintroducing solid foods once swelling decreases and pain subsides. As you munch on cooked vegetables, fish, and oatmeal, don’t forget to monitor your gums for signs of discomfort.

Tips for a Speedy Recovery

Apart from your food habits, you can also incorporate these habits into your daily oral care routine to ensure a smooth recovery:

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking as they increase the risk of complications after surgery.
• Chew on the side opposite the extraction site.

Following a diet that supports your healing after a wisdom tooth extraction is simple. If you experience worsening pain even after sticking to the foods to eat after wisdom tooth extraction, contact your dentist immediately. You can also call us to discuss your recovery plan or book an appointment with us!