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Do you have any questions about what foods you can eat after having your teeth extracted? Our Vernon dentists offer advice on what foods to eat and stay away from following dental surgery.
If you have damaged teeth that are threatening the health of your other healthy teeth, your dentist may recommend having them extracted. You will be advised to eat a healthful diet featuring soft foods while you heal.
We've put together a general timeline of what should be safe to eat at various stages of recovery - and provided some crucial information about when you'll be able to enjoy all the foods you love again. However, your schedule may vary depending on your dentist's recommendations and other factors.
Why eat soft, healthy foods after teeth are extracted?
Although tooth extractions are a common procedure, it's important to follow your dentist's instructions, eat a healthy diet high in soft foods, and take care of yourself afterward to ensure a quick recovery.
You’ll want to do this to avoid complications or infections, which can result from bacteria or food particles becoming trapped in the extraction area.
What can I eat after a tooth extraction?
For 3 to 5 days
Generally, you’ll want to ensure you eat lots of soft, mushy food and ensure you get plenty of liquids for 3 to 5 days. This can include:
- Smoothies
- Apple sauce
- Yogurt
- Blended soups (easy to eat, hydrating and rich in nutrients)
- Pudding
- Broths (filled with minerals and essential vitamins to help you recover)
- Pureed or mashed vegetables such as squash or carrots
- Jell-O
- Regular ice cream or banana ice cream
- Seedless, pureed fruit
- Potatoes (regular, mashed or sweet)
As you start to heal, gradually integrate more regular, semi-soft foods such as:
- Instant oatmeal
- Toast
- Scrambled eggs
- Macaroni and cheese
Allow any hot food to cool before eating, and keep the area clean according to your dentist’s recommendations. Also, remember to take your medications as prescribed.
Which foods should I avoid?
For 1 Week or More
For those first few days, the extraction site will be vulnerable to infection. You’ll want to avoid foods that may inflame the area or lead to complications, such as:
- Grains (quinoa, rice)
- Alcohol
- Seeds
- Crunchy, tough or crumbly foods (hamburgers, jerky, popcorn, pizza, etc.)
- Spicy or acidic foods (peppers, citrus juice)
For 2 to 4 Weeks
You may love these snack foods. However, you should avoid eating them until you’re fully recovered, as they may stick in the wound and disrupt healing.
- Popcorn
- Nuts
- Chips
When can I start eating normal food after a tooth extraction?
Within a week of having their teeth removed, many patients discover they can resume eating regular food. In the days and weeks following a tooth extraction, it is crucial to consume a diet rich in delectable, healthy, and soft foods to promote a speedy recovery.
As long as you consume the right foods – and avoid foods that may delay or hamper your recovery – you’ll feel more comfortable and help reduce your risk of infection.