What to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal

If you’ve recently undergone wisdom tooth extraction, you’re probably well aware of the challenges it can pose when it comes to eating. Whether you’re looking for soft and soothing options to aid your recovery or simply seeking delicious and nutritious meals to keep you satisfied during this healing process, we’ve got you covered. 

In this comprehensive guide, the team at The Point Dental will explore a variety of post-wisdom tooth removal diet recommendations, mouthwatering recipes, and essential tips to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery. 

Why is it important to watch what I eat after wisdom tooth removal?

Watching what you eat after removing your wisdom teeth is crucial for several reasons:

• Promotes healing – the right diet can significantly aid in the healing process. 
• Minimises discomfort – soft foods can avoid unnecessary strain on your tender gums. 
• Prevents infection – hard foods with sharp edges can cause irritation and infection. 
• Reduces swelling – swelling is a common side effect, but the right food can minimise this. 
• Proper nutrition – you must maintain a balanced diet to aid recovery. 
• Prevents further complications – soft foods will reduce any further wisdom teeth removal complications.

How long after a wisdom tooth extraction can I eat?

After a wisdom tooth extraction, it is typically recommended to wait until the anesthesia wears off completely before attempting to eat or drink anything. This period usually lasts around 1-2 hours after the procedure. 

Once the initial recovery period has passed, you can gradually begin to introduce soft and easy-to-chew foods into your diet. This usually starts with a liquid or soft food diet for the first few days following the extraction.

Foods to eat after wisdom teeth removal 

It’s important to consume foods that are soft, easy to chew, and gentle on the healing extraction sites following extraction of wisdom teeth. 

Here are some recommended food options to consider during your recovery. 

Soups 

Smooth or blended soups, such as pumpkin soup or tomato bisque, are a suitable option after getting wisdom teeth removed. This is because they’re easy to consume and don’t contain hard bits that could potentially irritate the surgical wound. 

Soups are also generally rich in vitamins and minerals, ensuring you get the daily nutrition recommendations needed when you can’t consume solid foods like fruits or vegetables. Make sure your soups are lukewarm or at room temperature to avoid irritation. 

Broths 

Similar to soups, broths are an excellent choice when it comes to nourishing your body after dental surgery. Not only do they taste good, but they also contain various vitamins and minerals that help you keep hydrated if you’re struggling to drink water. 

Mashed potatoes 

Creamy mashed potatoes are a go-to comfort food that requires minimal chewing. Make them even more flavorful by adding butter, sour cream, or herbs.

Mashed potatoes are also considered a comfort food, as they are rich in calories and nutrients that are important for recovery. 

Yogurt 

Choose soft and smooth yogurt without any fruit chunks. It’s not only easy to eat but also provides probiotics that can aid in digestion and support oral health. 

Specifically, greek yogurt is a nutritious high-protein food that you can continuously enjoy after dental surgery. The smooth and creamy texture can help soother your mouth’s wound. Additionally, Greek yogurt is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals such as calcium and zinc. 

Plus, high-protein foods can aid in faster recovery, with recent studies showing that a low-protein diet is linked to a slower recovery process. 

Applesauce 

While apples are hard and crunchy, and not suitable to eat after wisdom tooth removal. You can instead opt for unsweetened applesauce for a naturally sweet and smooth option. It’s a great source of fiber and can be enjoyed plain or mixed with cinnamon for added flavour.

Eating applesauce is a great way to increase fruit intake without having to eat solid food. Although it’s not one of the most nutritious foods, it’s still a great way to boost the immune system and stick to a soft food diet.  

Smoothies 

Unable to eat a solid meal? Liquid and soft foods, like smoothies are a smart way of boosting your nutritional intake. They’re relatively easy to consume and completely versatile, meaning you can adjust the ingredients in your smoothies to suit your taste. 

For example, you could blend together a combination of fruits, yogurt, milk or juice, and ice for a nutritious and refreshing meal. You can add protein powder or nut butter for an extra boost of nutrients. You could even add some ingredients that provide healthy fats into your diet. 

Scrambled eggs 

One of the most healthy foods you can eats after wisdom tooth extraction is eggs. They’re a great source of high-quality protein and contain lots of vitamins and minerals. 

Scrambled eggs are easier to chew compared to other types of egg preparations. Be sure to cook them thoroughly and avoid adding any hard or crunchy ingredients.

When can I eat solid foods after wisdom teeth removal?

The timing for reintroducing solid foods after wisdom teeth removal can vary depending on individual circumstances and the guidance provided by your dentist or oral surgeon. In general, it is recommended to start with a soft diet immediately after the procedure and gradually transition to solid foods as your healing progresses. Typically, you can expect to reintroduce solid foods within a week or two after the surgery.

Get wisdom tooth extraction advice from The Point Dental 

Need your wisdom teeth removed? The team at The Point Dental have you covered. We’ll walk you through the process and provide you with helpful advice regarding recovery. For more information about our general dentistry procedures, contact us today.