Planning your meals after wisdom teeth removal is crucial to ensure a speedy recovery. What you eat can greatly impact your healing process and overall comfort.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the best foods to include in your diet, foods to avoid, the importance of hydration, meal planning tips, soft foods that aid in healing, balancing essential nutrients, snack ideas for energy, and provide some final thoughts on your recovery journey.

Quick Answer: What to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal?

After your wisdom teeth removal surgery, it's best to stick to soft, cold, and nutrient-rich foods to avoid causing any irritation or discomfort. Some examples of suitable foods include:

  • Yogurt

  • Applesauce

  • Pureed soups

  • Smoothies

  • Mashed potatoes

In addition to soft foods, staying hydrated is key to a smooth recovery.

  • Opt for cold or room temperature beverages like water, herbal teas, or fruit juices without pulp.

  • Avoid using straws during the initial days post-surgery, as the sucking motion can dislodge blood clots and delay healing.

It's also advisable to steer clear of hot or spicy foods that may cause irritation to the surgical sites. By following these dietary guidelines, you can promote healing and minimize discomfort after wisdom teeth removal.

Foods to Include in Recovery After Oral Surgery

Immediate Post-Extraction Period (First 24 Hours)

Objective: Focus on hydration and avoid aggravating the extraction site.

  • Broths and Soups: Warm (not hot) broths that are rich in vitamins and minerals can help with hydration and nutrition without requiring chewing. Avoid chunky soups to prevent any pieces from lodging in the extraction site.

  • Water and Ice Chips: Staying hydrated is crucial. Sucking on ice chips can also help with inflammation and pain relief.

  • Herbal Teas: Warm (not hot) herbal teas like chamomile, which can promote relaxation and might help reduce inflammation. Ensure the tea is not too hot to avoid disturbing the extraction site.

2-3 Days After Extraction

Objective: Gradually introduce semi-soft foods that require minimal chewing and provide nourishment.

  • Smoothies: Packed with vitamins and minerals. Use ingredients like yogurt, bananas, and berries. Avoid using straws as the suction can dislodge the blood clot over the extraction site.

  • Mashed Potatoes: Soft, easy to consume, and can be a good source of calories and nutrients.

  • Scrambled Eggs: Soft and easy to eat, providing high-quality protein which is vital for healing.

  • Applesauce and Pureed Fruits: Nutritious and gentle on the extraction site. Ensure they are at room temperature or cool.

4-7 Days Post-Extraction

Objective: Incorporate more substantial foods that encourage healing without putting stress on the extraction site.

  • Soft Cooked Vegetables: Carrots, spinach, and others can be cooked until soft enough to eat easily without extensive chewing.

  • Oatmeal: Soft and warm (not hot); it’s comforting and can be flavored with soft fruits or cinnamon for added nutrients.

  • Soft Fish: Tuna or salmon, which are easy to chew and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for healing.

  • Pasta and Rice: Cooked until very soft, these can provide the calories and comfort needed during recovery.

7 Days Onward

Objective: Gradually return to a normal diet as comfort and healing progress, while still being mindful of the extraction site.

  • Gradually Reintroduce Regular Diet: Start to incorporate more of your regular diet as comfort allows. Continue to avoid very hard, sticky, or crunchy foods until fully healed.

  • Nutrient-Rich Foods: Focus on foods that are high in vitamins A and C, which promote healing. Fruits like oranges and strawberries, and vegetables like sweet potatoes and bell peppers are excellent choices.

  • Whole Grains and Lean Proteins: These can help restore normal function and contribute to overall health without putting undue pressure on the healing site.

Important Notes:

  • Avoid: Throughout the recovery process, avoid foods that are extremely hot, spicy, hard, or crunchy. Also, steer clear of tobacco, alcohol and using a straw, as these can interfere with the healing process.

  • Hygiene: Maintaining oral hygiene after an extraction is crucial for preventing infection. Follow your dentist's advice on how to clean your mouth after meals.

If certain foods cause discomfort or seem to disrupt the healing process, it's best to avoid them and consult with your dentist.

Foods to Avoid During the Healing Process

While certain foods are beneficial for recovery, there are some you should avoid to prevent complications and ensure a smooth healing process. It is essential to be mindful of your diet during the healing phase to promote optimal recovery and reduce the likelihood of any setbacks.

Avoid consuming:

  • Crunchy snacks, such as chips or nuts

  • Hot and spicy foods

  • Hard candies

  • Alcohol and caffeine

  • Acidic or citrus foods

Avoiding these foods minimizes the risk of irritating the surgical area, exacerbating pain, or causing complications such as dry socket. Opting for softer, easy-to-chew options can help in maintaining comfort and promoting healing.

Additionally, steering clear of alcohol and caffeine is crucial as they can interfere with the body's natural healing processes and may have adverse effects on medication you take post-surgery. Hot and spicy foods, along with acidic or citrus foods, can irritate sensitive areas and delay the healing process, so it's best to avoid them until you have fully recovered.

Hydration & Its Role in Recovery

Staying hydrated is crucial for a successful recovery.

  • Ensure you consume an adequate amount of fluids (avoiding straws to prevent dislodging blood clots).

  • Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day.

  • Consider consuming hydrating options, such as Gatorade or herbal tea, to nourish your body.

Hydration plays a vital role in the body's ability to heal and repair itself. When you are dehydrated, your body's cells are deprived of essential nutrients and oxygen, which can hinder the recovery process.

By maintaining proper hydration levels, you can help flush out toxins from your body and support the functions of your vital organs.

It's important to note that individual hydration needs may vary based on factors such as age, weight, activity level, and climate.

  • In addition to water, you can also boost your hydration levels by consuming foods with high water content, such as watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges.

  • These foods not only provide hydration but also essential vitamins and minerals that can aid in the recovery process.

Meal Planning for the First Week After Surgery

Proper meal planning simplifies the recovery process and guarantees a nutritious diet. Prepare soft food options in advance and store them in easily accessible containers.

Opt for meals that require minimal chewing and are easy to swallow. Planning your meals also prevents you from resorting to unhealthy food choices due to convenience.

Soft Foods to Aid in Healing

Diversify your meal options by incorporating soft foods that are soothing and promote healing. Some examples include:

  • Mashed avocado

  • Oatmeal

  • Scrambled eggs

  • Blended soups

  • Soft cooked vegetables

These foods minimize chewing and provide the necessary nutrients to support your recovery.

Balancing Nutrients for Optimal Healing

During your recovery period, it's essential to consume a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients. Incorporate:

  • Calcium-rich foods, such as dairy products or fortified non-dairy alternatives

  • Protein sources like fish, tofu, or legumes

  • Whole grains for energy

  • Vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables

By incorporating these nutrients into your diet, you provide your body with the nutrients needed to repair and regenerate tissues.

Snack Ideas to Keep Energy Levels Up

While adhering to soft foods, it's crucial to maintain your energy levels. Snacking on nutritious options can help with that. Consider the following snack ideas:

  • Greek yogurt with honey or fruit

  • Blended fruit smoothies

  • Soft cheese with soft crackers

  • Fruit purees or compotes

These snacks provide essential nutrients and keep you satiated throughout the day.

Final Thoughts

Recovering from wisdom teeth removal requires patience and taking extra care of your diet. Choosing the right foods, maintaining hydration, and ensuring a balanced nutrient intake can significantly contribute to a smooth recovery.

Remember to consult with your oral surgeon or dentist for personalized recommendations based on your specific needs. With proper post-surgery nutrition, you'll soon be back to enjoying your regular diet and saying goodbye to any discomfort caused by your wisdom teeth.

FAQs

How long until you can eat normally after wisdom teeth?

Most people can return to their normal diet within 2 weeks after wisdom teeth removal, gradually introducing harder foods as comfort and healing progress.

What food is OK after wisdom teeth removal?

Immediately after removal, stick to soft, easy-to-swallow foods such as yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, soup, smoothies, and pudding. Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or hard foods that can irritate the extraction sites.

Can I eat 3 hours after tooth extraction?

It's best to wait until the local anesthetic wears off to avoid biting your cheek or tongue. Start with liquid or soft foods that require no chewing.

What fast foods can I eat after wisdom teeth removal?

Opt for softer fast-food options like milkshakes (no straw), soft serve ice cream, mashed potatoes, or smoothie bowls. Avoid anything crunchy, chewy, or too hot.

When is dry socket no longer a risk?

The risk of dry socket decreases significantly after the first week post-extraction. It's most common 2 to 5 days after surgery.

When can I stop worrying about dry socket?

You can generally stop worrying about dry socket after about 7 to 10 days when the initial healing phase has passed, and the extraction sites have begun to close.

Can I eat mac and cheese after wisdom teeth?

Yes, mac and cheese is typically soft enough to eat a few days after surgery. Ensure it's not too hot and chew carefully on the opposite side of your mouth.

Can you eat McDonald's after wisdom teeth?

Soft items from McDonald's, like milkshakes (without using a straw) or soft-serve ice cream, are okay a few days post-surgery. Avoid burgers and fries until you can comfortably chew solid food without pain, usually within 1 to 2 weeks.

* Though the author of this post is a licensed dentist in the state of Kansas, this information is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Please use your best judgment and contact emergency medical services in the event of an emergency.