Getting your wisdom teeth extracted is a common milestone in many young adults’ lives. Unfortunately, however, it comes with a bit of a healing process. The good news is that when you follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions, this time can be safe and successful.
Part of recovering from this procedure includes modifying your diet for at least a few days. Here’s a closer look at some delicious, satisfying foods you can eat to keep you feeling healthy and strong while your mouth heals.
Stay Cool
While hot foods may be soothing in other situations, it is recommended that you avoid them in the immediate days following tooth extraction. If you do want to enjoy something that is normally served hot, try serving it at room temperature or cooler to help keep oral inflammation at a minimum. You should be able to dial the temperature back up in about three days after your procedure.
Make it a Decaf
Caffeine can dilate the blood vessels, making it harder to stop the bleeding in your extraction sites. This can also make it take longer to form a clot. Thus, be sure to avoid any type of caffeinated beverage for at least two to three days post procedure.
Outlaw the Straw
Straws may seem easier to maneuver when you’ve got oral pain, especially if your mouth is still partially numb, but unfortunately the pressure they create can dislodge the clot forming in your extraction site(s) and cause an extremely painful condition called dry socket. If this occurs, you’ll need to see your dentist as soon as possible, as in addition to hurting, it can increase your risk of dangerous oral infections.
Soft, Satisfying Foods
The good news is that although you may need to switch to a soft diet for a few days, there are still plenty of foods you can enjoy that will leave you feeling satisfied all the while providing a great deal of nutrition. These include:
- Scrambled eggs
- Yogurt
- Cottage cheese
- Avocado
- Bananas
- Smoothies
- Hummus
- Mashed potatoes
- Instant oatmeal
- Applesauce
- Warm soup or broth
Unfortunately, although there are a few foods that you should avoid eating for the first two or three days post procedure, the good news is that they’re not banned forever! Thus, skip anything in these categories until you are feeling up to it and your dentist gives you the all clear:
- Nuts or seeds
- Chewy foods
- Crunchy foods
- Spicy foods
- Alcohol
- Caffeinated beverages
Remember, wisdom tooth extraction is an important procedure for your oral and overall health. Although it does require some dietary changes in the first few days post procedure, the good news is that these are all temporary, and soon you’ll be able to enjoy all your favorite foods and drinks again. If you ever have any questions or concerns about any menu item, or if your extraction sites seem to be getting worse instead of better, contact your dentist as soon as possible for help.
About Dr. Geer
Dr. James Geer earned his undergraduate degree at Trinity University in San Antonio and his dental degree at the University of Texas at Houston. He is a proud, active member of the American Dental Association, the State of Texas Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, the Willowbrook Dental Study Club, and the Greater Houston Dental Society. To schedule an appointment for wisdom tooth extraction, visit our website or call 832-639-6236.