What to Eat After Oral Surgery (And What to Skip)
Whether you’re having a tooth extracted, wisdom teeth removed, or a dental implant placed, what you eat afterward can make a big difference in how well (and how quickly) you heal.
At Rockwall Oral Surgery, Dr. Kevin Pollock and his team want every patient to have a smooth, comfortable recovery — and that starts with a few smart choices in the kitchen.
Why Food Matters After Oral Surgery
Your mouth needs time to heal after surgery. The right foods help protect delicate tissues, prevent complications like dry socket, and keep you nourished when chewing is limited.
The Best Foods to Eat
For the first few days (or as long as Dr. Pollock recommends), stick with soft, cool, and mild foods that won’t irritate the surgical site.
Soft foods to try:
- Yogurt, pudding, and applesauce
- Mashed potatoes and scrambled eggs
- Smoothies (with a spoon — no straws!)
- Soups and broths (lukewarm, not piping hot)
- Oatmeal, cream of wheat, or grits
- Soft-cooked pasta or rice
Add protein to help you heal:
- Blend in protein powder to a smoothie.
- Try soft fish, shredded chicken, or tofu once your surgeon says it’s okay.
Foods to Avoid
Some foods can slow healing, cause pain, or even dislodge the protective blood clot that forms after surgery.
Skip these until you’re fully healed:
- Crunchy foods like chips, popcorn, nuts, or raw veggies
- Hard or chewy foods like tough bread or steak
- Spicy or acidic foods that can sting sensitive areas
- Alcohol, which can irritate healing tissues
- Sucking through a straw can create suction that pulls the blood clot out, leading to painful dry socket.
How Long Should You Stick to Soft Foods?
Most patients eat soft foods for about a week. Some heal faster, while others may need a bit more time. Dr. Pollock will check your healing progress and let you know when you’re ready to ease back into your normal diet.
More Tips for a Smooth Recovery
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated — sip slowly.
- Keep your mouth clean, following all post-op care instructions.
- Rest and avoid vigorous activity for a few days to help your body heal.
We’re Here to Help
Worried about what you can or can’t eat after surgery? Don’t stress — you’ll leave Rockwall Oral Surgery with clear, simple instructions tailored to your specific procedure.
If you ever have questions during recovery, we’re just a phone call away.
Book Your Consultation Today
Oral surgery doesn’t have to be intimidating — and your recovery doesn’t have to be complicated. Dr. Pollock and our team are here to guide you every step of the way.
Call Rockwall Oral Surgery at (469) 757-4433 or reach us through our contact page to schedule a consultation today.
