Hungry after your wisdom teeth removal? Curious about delectable yet safe post-surgery meals? We’re here to help with a selection of soft, flavorful options that won’t hinder your recovery.
Wisdom tooth extraction is a surgical process for removing one or more wisdom teeth. While you can begin eating approximately an hour after surgery, it’s essential to stick to soft foods during the initial 24 hours. Consider soft food choices such as yogurt, applesauce, smoothies, jelly, and pudding to ensure a comfortable and delicious recovery. Explore everything you need to know about wisdom tooth removal recovery, from post-operative care to soothing tips for a smoother healing journey. Arm yourself with knowledge for a comfortable and informed recuperation.
What Can I Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
The success of your wisdom tooth removal procedure is also influenced by the food you choose. Incorporating the following food groups into your diet can expedite the healing process at the extraction site, hastening your return to regular eating habits.
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is characterized by its high protein content and nutritional richness, featuring essential elements like calcium, selenium, and vitamin B12. This yogurt type is associated with several health benefits, such as supporting bone and muscle health, with specific varieties possibly aiding in digestive wellness.
It has a smooth and creamy texture that may help soothe and numb your mouth, perfect for post-dental surgery.
Scrambled Eggs
Eggs are a protein-rich food source, with the whites and yolks contributing to their protein content. They also provide heart-healthy unsaturated fats and are a rich reservoir of essential nutrients, including vitamin B6, B12, and vitamin D. Eggs make for an ideal post-oral surgery meal because they are easy to swallow and chew.
Bananas
Dentists recommend consuming bananas after wisdom teeth removal due to their ease of chewing and gentle texture on your gums. Bananas are a rich source of potassium, folate, manganese, vitamin B6, and other nutrients promoting oral health.
Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is an excellent soft meal choice after tooth extraction due to its high protein content and smooth, creamy texture.
Applesauce
Applesauce is a wise choice because it will add fiber to your diet following tooth extraction. Take note that this is best eaten at room temperature, not hot. Applesauce also contains antioxidants called phytochemicals. These antioxidants may help to reduce your risk of cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are an excellent choice for post-tooth extraction consumption. They are soft and packed with nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. These spuds are particularly abundant in vitamin C, an antioxidant. Additionally, potatoes, being hearty root vegetables, provide a satisfying and filling meal.
Hummus
Hummus is a fantastic option for individuals who have recently undergone wisdom teeth extraction. It is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Moreover, hummus has anti-inflammatory properties, contributes to enhanced blood sugar regulation, supports digestive health, and reduces the risk of heart disease while aiding in weight management.
Avocado
Avocados are a wise choice during your wisdom teeth recovery period due to their low carbohydrate content and rich, healthy fats. Their creamy texture makes them easy to consume after oral surgery. Besides, avocados are exceptionally nutritious, providing ample amounts of potassium, vitamin K, and vitamin C, contributing to your overall well-being during the healing process.
Smoothies
Smoothies offer several benefits during your wisdom teeth recovery period. They are an excellent way to increase your fiber intake and boost vitamin C levels, aiding overall health and healing. Cold smoothies can help manage swelling after the extraction. You can create a variety of smoothies using fruits, peanut butter, berry vanilla, or green ingredients to suit your preferences and nutritional needs.
Blended Soups
Broth-based or blended soups are highly recommended after wisdom teeth extraction. These soups are chew-free and don’t contain any ingredients that could irritate the surgical sites, making them an ideal choice for nourishment during your recovery. Additionally, soups are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, ensuring your nutritional needs are met while chewing is restricted.
Opting for the recommended foods mentioned above significantly facilitates healing after wisdom tooth removal. Fruits and vegetables, in particular, promote improved oral health and contribute to an overall healthier lifestyle. These choices assist in a quicker recovery and promote long-term well-being.
Broths
Broth, including bone broth, is an excellent choice for post-wisdom tooth removal meals. It boasts delicious flavors, keeps you well-hydrated, and provides a wealth of essential vitamins and nutrients. Bone broth, in particular, has gained recognition in recent years for its numerous health benefits.
Instant Oatmeal
Instant oatmeal is an excellent source of fiber and other vitamins and minerals. You should wait two to three days following your wisdom teeth extraction to consume oats because they tend to be sticky.
Salmon
Salmon is an excellent choice for post-wisdom teeth removal meals. It’s soft and easy to chew, making it an ideal main course. Plus, it’s rich in protein, providing a nutritious option for your recovery diet.
Mashed Pumpkin
Due to its soft texture, mashed pumpkin is an excellent choice for post-tooth extraction meals. It’s also packed with minerals that promote heart health, including potassium, vitamin C, and fiber. These heart-healthy nutrients make it a nutritious addition to your recovery diet.
Ice Cream
Ice cream can be soothing after your wisdom teeth removal as it acts as a cold compress to reduce swelling. When you consume ice cream, the blood vessels near the removed tooth constrict, limiting the flow of fluids to the surrounding tissues and helping to alleviate swelling.
Pudding
Pudding is an excellent food choice after tooth extraction because of its soft texture. It’s delicious and a healthy source of calcium, vitamins, and minerals. Pudding contains essential nutrients like vitamin D and magnesium, which work alongside calcium to promote strong bones and tooth enamel.
Jelly
Gelatin is rich in proteins and antioxidants, which contribute to the health of various bodily systems, including digestion, bone health, skin, and joints. Additionally, it serves as a valuable source of calcium.
Puréed or Mashed Vegetables
Vegetable purees are an excellent choice after tooth extraction surgery. Their soft texture is gentle on your mouth and packed with nutrients to aid your recovery. They’re a great way to increase your fiber intake, supporting weight management without adding extra calories.
Mashed Beans
Mashed beans are rich in minerals and fiber, promoting digestive health and reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. They make for a nutritious and soft food option after tooth extraction.
How Long After Wisdom Teeth Removal Can I Eat?
You can remove the gauze sponges about an hour after your surgery to have something to eat. However, it’s essential to stick to soft foods for the first 24 hours after the procedure and avoid hot foods and beverages for 24-48 hours.
When Can I Eat Solid Food After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Adding solid foods to your diet is recommended around seven days after surgery. While wisdom tooth removal is generally straightforward, recovery may take longer than expected.
What Foods to Avoid After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
- Chewy, crunchy, fried, hard, or sticky food, while chewing, can dislodge blood clots, irritate the surgical site, or break into pieces. Examples include cookies, chips, crackers, popcorn, and foods containing nuts.
- Acidic foods can cause gum tissue inflammation and damage. Some examples include lemons, limes, plums, grapes, grapefruits, and blueberries. Oranges, pineapples, and peaches
- Spicy foods can be harmful because they irritate your gums and the surgical site. Anything with salsa, chili, or jalapenos should be avoided.
You should know what foods you can eat after your wisdom teeth removal and what beverages you can drink after your wisdom teeth removal.
What to Eat for Breakfast After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Following wisdom tooth extraction, soup is an excellent breakfast option. Broth-based or blended soups are also excellent because they do not necessitate chewing and do not contain any ingredients that may irritate the extraction sites.
Can you eat mac and cheese after wisdom teeth?
Yes. Pasta is entirely permissible as long as it is adequately prepared. Macaroni and cheese is an excellent choice because the small noodles can be swallowed whole or chewed with your front teeth.
Why Can't I Eat Dairy After Wisdom Tooth Removal?
On the day of surgery, dairy products such as yogurt, ice cream, or milkshakes may cause nausea and vomiting as a side effect of the anesthetic and pain medication.
What else do I need to know about wisdom tooth extraction besides what to eat after wisdom teeth removal?
Apart from the post-extraction diet, you should know that wisdom tooth removal involves pre-surgery consultations, anesthesia options, and potential complications. Following your dentist’s or oral surgeon’s instructions is essential for a smooth recovery. Understanding these aspects ensures a successful wisdom tooth removal process.
Jacob Vayner at Esthetic Smile Dental Care has over 19 years of experience in dental implant surgery since 2011 and will help you get your smile back! Make an appointment with us to learn more about the risks of wisdom tooth removal. Reach out to Jacob Vayner at Esthetic Smile Dental Care.
