Wisdom teeth removal is a procedure that can make a major difference for a patient’s oral health. However, it can be an uncomfortable experience, particularly when eating. Knowing what to eat and what to avoid after the procedure can be a challenge.
To help reduce your pain and optimize your recovery, the experts at Clinique Dentaire 1935 explain what foods are safe to eat after wisdom teeth removal.
Foods to eat after wisdom teeth removal
After having your wisdom teeth removed, it’s important to tailor your diet accordingly and choose foods that won’t increase your pain or interfere with your recovery.
What to eat for the first 3 days after the operation
People who have already had their wisdom teeth removed will tell you that after the operation, the simple act of chewing can be a major challenge. That’s why you should opt for food that is either liquid or soft in texture and cool rather than hot after the operation.
Optimize your recovery by eating:
- Soup and broth (preferably cold or lukewarm)
- Yoghurt and ice cream
- Soft or mashed fruit (bananas, avocados, strawberries, etc.). Fruit smoothies and compotes are a great choice!
- Fruit or vegetable juice
Note that pineapple juice contains an enzyme called bromelain that can help reduce bruising and swelling due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
What to eat 4 to 5 days after the operation
Of course, healthy eating is always important, but it’s even more vital when you’re recovering from a procedure like a dental extraction.
A diet of healthy and nutritious food can help reduce swelling and facilitate healing. Foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals can actually speed up the healing process!
Furthermore, a balanced diet reduces the risk of post-operative complications. Good overall health reinforced by a well-rounded diet will contribute to a rapid recovery.
Once you’ve hit the 4 or 5 day mark after your wisdom teeth removal, you can add the following foods to your grocery list:
- Soup and vegetable purée (warm)
- Bread without the crust (sandwich bread)
- Cereal and cookies soaked and softened in milk or tea
- Scrambled, poached or fried eggs
- Cooked fish
When to start eating normally again after wisdom teeth removal
Every experience is unique. The time it takes for you to return to a normal diet will depend on how quickly you heal. While it’s impossible to provide a definitive timeframe, a reasonable estimate is around 10 days after the operation.
That being said, it’s always best to follow whatever advice your dentist gives you and refer to them for any questions you have after your wisdom teeth removal.
Foods to avoid after wisdom teeth removal
Just as some foods can promote healing after a tooth extraction, others can interfere with it. It’s best to avoid eating these foods to ensure a speedy recovery.
First things first, avoid eating anything hard or sticky, such as candy. Foods that require considerable chewing may become lodged in the wound and prevent it from healing. This can also increase your risk of infection.
Hot, spicy and acidic foods should also be avoided after your operation because they can irritate the affected area, causing a lot of discomfort. Finally, it’s important to avoid drinking alcohol during the healing process. Alcoholic beverages can irritate your wound, and it’s never a good idea to mix alcohol and pain medication.
Contact Clinique Dentaire 1935 for wisdom teeth removal and post-operative care
Once your wisdom teeth have been removed, it’s important to eat soft or liquid foods that won’t cause you more pain. You should also maintain a healthy and balanced diet that will promote a quick recovery. Avoid alcohol and foods that are hard, hot, spicy or acidic, all of which can interfere with the healing process and may increase the risk of complications.
If you’re looking for a trusted dental clinic for your wisdom tooth extraction, the team of dentists at Clinique Dentaire 1935 in Montreal offers unparalleled oral healthcare services and advice for a successful recovery.
Contact us today to book an appointment at our Montreal clinic.