Roughly 90% of all patients are likely to need their wisdom teeth to be pulled at some point in their life. If this is something you have to do, then you’re probably wondering what to expect from the treatment. While your dentist will provide you with specific aftercare instructions to practice during your recovery, you may want to know the kinds of foods you’ll be able to eat after your procedure. Keep reading to learn what you should and shouldn’t munch on following wisdom tooth extractions!
A Few Dos & Don’ts After Your Treatment
While knowing what you can and can’t eat after your surgery is important, here are several dos and don’ts you’ll need to consider:
- DO take pain medications with your meals to prevent feeling nauseous
- DON’T eat until the numbing agent wears off
- DO stock your pantry and fridge with essentials before undergoing treatment
- DON’T use a straw when drinking beverages
- DO test the temperature of your meals and drinks to ensure they aren’t hot
What Should You Eat After Your Procedure?
Most people imagine that they’ll be lying on the couch with a large bowl of ice cream after undergoing wisdom tooth extractions. Although this may sound nice, comforting, and delicious, you might not want to indulge in high sugar content, especially immediately after oral surgery. For healthier options, stick to a diet that includes foods like:
- Yogurt
- Oatmeal
- Scrambled eggs
- Avocados
- Mashed potatoes
- Vegetable soup
- Soft fish
- Fruit smoothies (stay away from fruits containing seeds)
Foods & Beverages to Avoid for a Smooth Recovery
Now that you know which foods you should eat after your appointment, you’ll want to be aware of the meals you need to avoid. Steering clear of hard and crunchy meals is a must, which can include apples, pretzels, and popcorn. You also shouldn’t drink or eat anything highly acidic, such as coffee, soda, lemons, and even tomatoes. Try not to munch on anything chewy, like steak, which can disturb the surgical site. Remember to minimize your sugar intake, as you’ll want to avoid developing tooth decay.
Keep these few tips in mind when choosing your meals after undergoing wisdom tooth extractions. Add in proper oral hygiene and plenty of rest, you’ll be sure to recover from your treatment in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Sileshi Assemu received his dental doctorate from the University of Tennessee in Memphis. He also regularly seeks continuing education to refine his techniques and expand his expertise. He offers a vast collection of high-quality and comprehensive services, including wisdom tooth extractions. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call him at 254-727-7144.