Eating the right foods after a tooth extraction is essential for promoting healing and preventing infection. It is recommended to wait at least 24 hours after the procedure before eating solid foods. Soft and nutritious foods that are easy to chew and swallow are best during this time.You should avoid foods that are hard, crunchy, or chewy, as these can irritate the extraction site and delay healing.
Continue reading for some tips on what to eat after tooth extraction.
What is Tooth Extraction?
A tooth extraction procedure is the process of removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. This dental procedure is necessary for various reasons, such as removing an impacted wisdom tooth, severe tooth decay, making room for orthodontic treatment, or preparing for dental implants. The procedure is typically performed by an oral surgeon or dentist and can involve either local anesthesia or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the extraction.
When Can I Eat After A Tooth Extraction?
For the first 24 hours, avoid eating anything to give the extraction site time to heal. Drink plenty of liquids during this time to keep yourself hydrated, which is essential to prevent dry sockets, a painful complication that can occur after tooth extraction.
24 hours after surgery, you can start eating soft foods that are easy to chew and swallow. You should chew on the opposite side of your mouth to avoid the blood clot from dislodging.
Three days following the oral surgery, you can start eating solid foods. However, during this time you should avoid hard, chewy, and hot foods as these can irritate the extraction site and slow down the recovery process.
Foods to Eat After Tooth Extraction
Here are some foods that are good to eat after your tooth extraction procedure:
Smoothies
Smoothies provide the body with essential nutrients and vitamins and are easy to swallow. Smoothies can be made with a variety of ingredients, such as fruits, vegetables, yogurt, milk, and a scoop of protein powder. Just don’t use a straw in your smoothies, as this can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
Blended Soup
Blended soup like pumpkin or tomato soup is an excellent option for those who have recently had a tooth extraction. Not only is it easy to swallow, but it is also packed with nutrients and can help keep you hydrated.
Greek Yogurt
Aside from its smooth, creamy texture, yogurt contains essential nutrients such as calcium, protein, and probiotics, making it an excellent choice for those who just had their teeth extracted. Avoid flavored yogurts that contain added sugar, as this can increase the risk of infection.
Scrambled Eggs
Eggs are an excellent source of protein and other essential nutrients, making them ideal for promoting healing. Omega-3-enriched eggs are especially beneficial as they contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and pain.
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes provide the body with essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, protein, and fiber. They are also easy to swallow and can fill you up quickly. Add some butter or cream cheese to make mashed potatoes even more delicious. This will help to boost the flavor and provide additional vitamins and minerals.
Other lists of comfort foods to eat after a tooth extraction include applesauce, pudding or custard, cottage cheese, instant oatmeal, banana ice cream, and milkshakes.
Why Soft Foods After Tooth Extraction?
Soft foods are recommended after tooth extraction because they are easy to chew and swallow, which helps to reduce the risk of infection. Additionally, soft foods are less likely to irritate the extraction site, which can further delay healing. Consuming liquid foods is also important for keeping yourself hydrated, which helps prevent dry sockets.
Foods to Avoid After Your Tooth Extraction Surgery
Chewy Foods
Chewy foods are sticky and can easily get stuck in the empty tooth socket, increasing the risk of infection. Examples of chewy foods include gum, jerky, and taffy.
Crunchy and Crumbly Foods
Crunchy foods like chips, popcorn, hard candies, and nuts should be avoided after tooth extraction as they can irritate the extraction site and delay healing. Though it can be tempting to snack on these crunchy treats, it is best to avoid them until the extraction site has healed completely.
Spicy Foods
Spicy foods like sauces, curries, and chili peppers should also be avoided after surgically removing your teeth, as they can cause irritation and slow the healing process. They can also cause inflammation which can worsen any existing pain or discomfort.
Extremely Hot or Cold Foods
Eating extremely hot or cold foods can cause soreness and discomfort at the extraction site. It is best to avoid these foods until the extraction site has healed completely.
Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic beverages negatively interact with the medications prescribed after oral surgery. Alcohol can also increase the risk of infection and cause dehydration, leading to dry sockets.
Visit Us For More Aftercare Tips!
If you have recently had a tooth extracted, it is important to take proper care of the extraction site by following your doctor’s aftercare instructions. Eating the right foods and avoiding certain foods can help promote healing and reduce the risk of infection. If you have any questions or concerns about aftercare, please contact our office for more information!