Did you recently have your wisdom teeth removed, or do you have an appointment coming up? You may wonder what types of food you can eat and when after the procedure. Feeling some discomfort with chewing food after wisdom teeth removal is normal, and choosing the right foods will help you recover more quickly. Generally, sticking with soft foods helps to reduce pain, swelling, and other symptoms that may arise after surgery. In this blog post, we'll explore the best foods to eat for different stages after wisdom teeth removal in order to help you get back onto your normal diet in no time.
Foods to Eat Immediately After Wisdom Tooth Removal
On the morning before wisdom teeth removal, you’ll often be instructed to avoid eating or drinking anything–not even water. This is to lessen the likelihood of your experiencing any nausea from the sedation anesthesia that you may be given. Immediately after wisdom teeth removal, though, it’s important to begin hydrating as soon as the effects of anesthesia have lessened. Start with cold, clear liquids (like water) sipped from a cup. Be sure to avoid sucking through any straws, as this may disturb the delicate blood clots that have only recently formed over your extraction sockets. Once you can hold down clear liquids, continue by consuming only soft, cold foods that first day. These include:
- Ice cream
- Pudding
- Yogurt
- Jell-O
- Applesauce
- Soft fruits such as bananas and melons
- Protein shakes and smoothies (without nuts or seeds)
As your appetite returns that first day, you may be tempted to advance your diet to something more substantial. This is likely okay, as long as the food remains soft, lukewarm (not hot), and requires minimal chewing.
Foods to Eat Starting the Day After Wisdom Teeth Removal
On the day after surgery, it is okay to begin incorporating warmer or even hot foods into your eating regimen. While you may be starting to experience swelling at this point–limiting your ability to chew–having your wisdom teeth removed doesn't mean depriving yourself of delicious meals. Maintain a soft diet on the day after surgery with choices that include:
- Coffee or tea
- Soups
- Mashed potatoes
- Overcooked vegetables like broccoli and spinach
- Pasta dishes
- Oatmeal
- Scrambled eggs or egg whites
Eating various softer foods gives your body the nutrients it needs for a quick recovery. Also, remember to continue drinking plenty of fluids and to eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day.
Foods to Avoid After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Consuming certain foods or drinks after wisdom teeth removal may cause complications like infection or delayed healing. Foods you should avoid after wisdom teeth removal include:
- Hard or crunchy foods like chips, nuts, popcorn, and pretzels
- Sticky foods like gum and chewy candy
- Spicy or acidic foods like salsa, tomato sauce, oranges, lemons, and limes
- Spicy or acidic drinks like orange juice and grapefruit juice
Also, avoid smoking or using any tobacco products during the immediate healing period after wisdom teeth removal. Once you have fully recovered, you can return to your normal diet. To ensure a speedy recovery and to reduce your risk of complications, be sure to follow all of your oral surgeon's instructions.
Wisdom Teeth Removal in Manchester, NH
Manchester Oral Surgery offers expert wisdom teeth removal services to patients throughout New Hampshire, including the areas of Manchester, Bedford, Goffstown, and Hooksett. Dr. Abel, our experienced and knowledgeable oral surgeon, specializes in performing safe and comfortable wisdom teeth removal surgery. We strive to make the procedure as simple and stress-free as possible for our patients. Learn more about our services by contacting us today at 603-622-9441.