Wisdom teeth removal is one of those parts of dental care that can feel daunting, especially when it comes to the healing process. The days following this common dental surgery can be uncomfortable, and your diet plays a crucial role in your recovery. Understanding the right foods to consume can not only ease your discomfort but also promote faster healing.
After a wisdom teeth removal, you should eat soft, nutrient-rich foods that are easy to chew and swallow. If you’re unsure, your dental team can answer your questions.
The First 24–48 Hours
Immediately after surgery, your mouth needs time to heal, and you should avoid any food that requires extensive chewing. Opt for liquids and very soft foods:
- Broths and soups: These can be soothing and provide essential nutrients. Ensure they are not too hot, as high temperatures can irritate the surgical site.
- Smoothies: Packed with fruits and vegetables, smoothies offer a delicious way to stay nourished. Avoid using a straw. Sucking can dislodge the blood clot from the socket.
- Applesauce: This provides a tasty and easy-to-eat option filled with vitamins.
- Juices: Stick to non-acidic juices to avoid irritation.
- Cold foods: Soft ice cream can be an excellent way to help soothe discomfort, but opt for a low-sugar version.
Soft Foods to Include Post-Surgery
Once the initial swelling reduces, you can gradually introduce more solid foods into your diet, though we recommend choosing softer options such as:
Dairy Products
- Yogurt: Choose plain or Greek yogurt for a protein boost without added sugar.
- Cottage cheese: This is not only soft but also packed with protein and calcium.
Protein-Rich Foods
- Scrambled eggs: Soft, easy to chew, and rich in protein, scrambled eggs are an excellent choice for breakfast.
- Smooth nut butter: Spread it on soft bread or mix it into oatmeal for a protein-packed meal.
Carbohydrates
- Oatmeal: Soft and nutritious, oatmeal can be customized with fruit purée or honey for added flavour.
- Soft pasta: Well-cooked pasta with a smooth sauce can be a filling and gentle option for lunch or dinner.
- Mashed potatoes: Comforting and easy to eat, mashed potatoes can be made more nutritious by adding gravy or cheese.
Foods to Avoid
Certain foods can hinder your recovery or cause complications. Knowing what to avoid is just as important as knowing what to eat:
- Crunchy or chewy foods: Chips, nuts, and popcorn can irritate the surgical site.
- Spicy foods: Spices can cause discomfort and slow healing.
- Acidic foods and drinks: Citrus fruits and tomatoes can cause stinging and irritation.
- Hot beverages: Hot coffee and tea can disrupt the healing process.
- Alcohol: This should be avoided as it can interfere with pain medications and delay healing.
While it’s not food, avoid using tobacco products or smoking after surgery, as it can increase the risk of infection.
Tips for a Speedy Recovery
Besides eating the right foods, your dentist will give you a set of instructions to help you recover smoothly and avoid any hiccups. Most people bounce back in about 3–4 days, but everyone’s a bit different. You might still feel some effects up to 2 weeks later, especially if those teeth were tricky to remove.
Here are some tips to help your healing:
- Keep things clean: To keep the area clean, gently dab it with soft gauze to soak up any blood. If your dentist provided gauze pads, leave one in place for an hour, then check if it’s still bleeding. Swap out the gauze if needed, and call your dentist if the bleeding doesn’t stop after 4 hours.
- Rinse with salt water: About a day after the surgery, you can start rinsing with warm salt water to keep bacteria at bay and help with healing. Just dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Try this rinse 4 to 5 times a day for 3 or 4 days, but be gentle when spitting to keep the blood clot in place.
- Manage the pain: It’s normal to have some swelling after surgery, which usually goes down in about a week. To help with swelling and discomfort, use a cold pack on the area for 20 minutes at a time. Your dentist might also recommend some pain meds, either prescription or over-the-counter, to help with the pain. Following these tips can make your recovery a lot more comfortable and quicker.
Your Allies in a Smooth Recovery
Healing from wisdom teeth removal doesn’t have to be a painful process. By choosing the right foods and following these simple guidelines, you can enjoy a quicker and more comfortable recovery. Remember to listen to your body and take it easy during this period.
If you have any concerns or need personalized advice, Ti Dental is here to help. Our friendly team is dedicated to supporting all your dental needs.
Book an appointment with us today and let’s put you on the path to a swift and smooth recovery.
