When the third set of molars begins to emerge (often in adolescence or young adulthood), many people will learn that there is not enough space to accommodate them. Therefore, the wisdom teeth will need to be removed. If you or your child’s wisdom teeth must be extracted, it’s smart to plan for meals and snacks following your procedure. On the day of the extraction, you should plan to stick with liquids or extremely soft foods. As you progress in your recovery, you’ll be able to add semi-soft foods (generally within 36-48 hours). Here are ideas to help you know what to eat after wisdom teeth removal.
Foods that Are Soothing After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Although the extractions will not hurt, you will experience tenderness following the procedure. Moreover, your body will be working hard to heal, so the extraction sites must not be disturbed. To that end, avoid using a straw, which can dislodge blood clots. Do not consume alcohol, and do not smoke or vape. You may also wish to avoid citrus juice and fruit due to acidity, spicy foods that can irritate the extraction site, and extremely hot foods which can slow the healing process.
Cool soft foods and juices are often very soothing after wisdom teeth extraction. These may include:
- Yogurt
- Cottage cheese
- Mashed banana
- Mashed avocado
- Smoothie (no straw)
- Milkshake (no straw)
- Jello
- Fresh fruit juice (no straw)
- Pudding
- Applesauce
Foods That Are Easy to Eat in the Days After Wisdom Teeth Removal
The day after your extraction, you’ll likely feel less tenderness and sensitivity. If so, you may wish to reintroduce semi-soft foods. But use care to avoid chewing near the extraction site. Foods that are easy for most people to manage within 24 hours of wisdom teeth removal include:
- Steamed, mashed vegetables (cauliflower, zucchini, squash, potato, sweet potato)
- Oatmeal
- Macaroni and cheese
- Rice
- Soft fish
- Soup ( broths, cream soups served warm, but not hot)
- Eggs
- Pasta
- Risotto
Avoid Hard, Crunchy, and Chewy Foods After Having Wisdom Teeth Extracted
What you should not eat is just as important as knowing what to eat after having your wisdom teeth removed. You should avoid all crunchy, hard, chewy, and gummy foods for the first few days after your extraction. You should also take caution to avoid foods like seeds and nuts which may become lodged in the extraction site. Avoid the following foods for at least a week after your surgery:
- Pretzels
- Chips
- Popcorn
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Toast or bread with a hard crust
- Caramel, taffy, gummy candy
- Bagels
- Hard cookies
- Chewing gum
If at any time during your recovery, you find that you’re experiencing worsening pain, swelling, or symptoms of dry socket, notify your dentist immediately.
Wisdom Teeth Removal in Brunswick, OH
Bellissimi Dental provides wisdom teeth removal at our state-of-the-art dental practice in Brunswick, OH. If your wisdom teeth must be removed, our experienced dentists will provide you with comprehensive aftercare instructions to promote a safe, swift recovery. To book an appointment at Bellissimi Dental in Brunswick, call 330-741-3334. If you prefer, you may also send us a message to request an appointment and our team will be in touch to confirm the day and time.