What Should I Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
One of the most common concerns from patients undergoing wisdom teeth removal surgery is what they eat and drink during the recovery process. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not all ice cream and room temperature soup.
Following all post-op care instructions is critical for recovery after having wisdom teeth removed and ensuring that one is comfortable and pain-free while eating and drinking.
What to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Surgery
There are a few tips to ensure the mouth heals as quickly as possible after having wisdom teeth removed. These tips also aid in increasing comfort levels when eating after surgery.
- No straws.
- The sucking motion required to drink from a straw can cause the blood clots at the extraction site(s) to come loose, resulting in a painful condition called dry socket.
- Avoid temperature extremes.
- Instead of hot or cold, try to eat and drink things at room temperature.
- Stick to liquids and incredibly soft food for the first 24 hours.
- Then gradually add soft foods to the diet over the next few days.
- Rinse with a saltwater mixture after meals.
- Rinsing will help keep the surgery site(s) clean and free of food debris.
Food Ideas To Assist Recovery
Anything soft and lukewarm will be a good option. However, here are our top choices for foods to eat after having wisdom teeth pulled:
- Applesauce
- Mashed potatoes
- Yogurt
- Jell-O or pudding
- Broth
- Scrambled eggs
- Ripe bananas and avocados
- Cheesecake
- Oatmeal
For more food ideas, check out this list from Medical News Today here.
Tips for Eating After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Individuals may find that eating five to six small meals every few hours is better than eating three large meals a day. Eating smaller meals helps the mouth not become overexerted from the chewing and swallowing motions involved in eating.
When ready to begin incorporating sold foods into one’s diet, remember to do so slowly. Try chewing anything somewhat solid in the front of the mouth away from the extraction sites to avoid pain or discomfort.
Remember that individuals should always drink these liquids without a straw and eat these soft foods at room temperature! Additionally, individuals should aim to avoid highly processed foods as they contain high amounts of sugar. High amounts of sugar in foods can delay oral healing needed from the wisdom teeth being removed.
Wisdom teeth Removal With Dr. Pollock
Ready to overcome dental pain with wisdom teeth removal? Our team is eager to assist our patients with personalized dental surgery options and treatments. Contact Dr. Pollock at Rockwall Oral Surgery to schedule a dental appointment. We are available by phone at (469) 264-8921 or email at info@dentalimplantsurgery.com.
We look forward to helping people find relief from their dental pain!
