Some people believe they need to embark on a fast when they’ve just had a tooth extraction. But really, you can eat after a tooth extraction procedure. You only need to be mindful of what you chew or consume.
We understand tooth extraction can be painful, especially after the procedure. Therefore, you’re looking for ways to reduce post-extraction pain.
But you don’t have to starve yourself. You risk burnout if you do. You need food for your body to function optimally while the extraction site heals up.
On this note, we’ll not only provide you with suggestions on what to eat after tooth extraction. We’ll also highlight what you should not eat post-extraction.
Let’s get digging.
Foods to Eat After Tooth Extraction
The best tooth extraction dentist in Ontario is likely to recommend meals which are gentle on the gums and the remaining teeth.
Therefore, your diet after tooth extraction should include the following:
Ice Cream
In addition to being a tasty treat, ice cream is one of the healthiest options to eat after tooth extraction.
It’s chilly and exceedingly gentle. It’s perfect for reducing swelling and relieving pain after tooth removal. It contributes to overall tooth extraction after-care.
Therefore, indulging in your favourite flavour of ice cream after the extraction procedure is okay.
Apple-based Spread
Mashed apple is the main ingredient in making applesauce. It’s the ideal temperature and softness for those healing from dental surgery.
Applesauce can aid with normal digestion, especially since your diet may not be regular after having your teeth pulled out. Try it when you need a sweet treat but want to eat something nutritious. They’re packed with vitamins C, K, and potassium.
Soup
Soup is an excellent choice as a soft dish to eat after tooth extraction. Mashed vegetable soups are not only nutritious. But they’re also gentle on the gums and teeth since there are no substantial chunks of edibles in it to chew through.
If you’re craving chicken or protein, filter chicken noodle soup to remove the large bits. Then sip on the broth for its Potassium, Vitamin A, and fibre content.
Caution while eating soup is essential since you’ve just had a tooth extraction. Therefore, ensure the soup is either lukewarm or cold to avoid aggravating the sore spot where the tooth was removed.
Greek Yogurt
Yogurt is another fantastic healthy option after tooth extraction, especially with no additives or ingredients, like crunchy fruit or granola.
Probiotics are present in yogurt. These constituents aid in digestion and in strengthening the immune system. They’re a good source of vitamin D and B vitamins.
Eggs
Eggs are also great to eat after tooth extraction. They’re not only easy on your oral structure. But Vitamins A and B-12 are found in them and are essential for immune system health.
Scrambling the eggs is the most tender preparation method because it requires minimal chewing. In addition, add cheese before you scramble them to give the eggs a tastier flavour.
Oatmeal
Usually, instant oatmeal is relatively coarse than the traditional variety. Therefore, it may not be safe to eat the former right after tooth extraction. However, you can make it with hot water and let it soak well before eating.
Also, you should consume the oatmeal when it’s lukewarm, so it doesn’t burn your mouth. Oatmeal’s high fibre content, essential vitamins and minerals will keep you energized and satisfied for longer.
Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is a mild protein food which may be eaten alone as a snack. But you can also blend it into other dishes for added flavour.
Mashed Potatoes
Another food to add to your diet after a tooth extraction is mashed potatoes. They’re a fantastic veggie for you.
You may have a low appetite after tooth extraction. Therefore, mashed potatoes are a great option because you may obtain comprehensive calories and nutrients from a small intake. Once more, ensure the potatoes are cold or lukewarm before consumption.
Related Article: How Long for Tooth Extraction to Heal
Breakdown of When to Eat After Tooth Extraction
As mentioned earlier, liquid or mashed soups are fantastic options after tooth extraction. They don’t involve biting, nor have particles that may lodge in your gum sockets. This section is a daily guide to eating after tooth extraction.
What to Eat 0-2 days after tooth Extraction
It’s advisable to eat incredibly soft meals after the tooth extraction. And this is because you’ll likely feel sore after the procedure.
These foods are safe to eat immediately after your tooth extraction procedure. And they’re safe because you don’t need to chew them before swallowing. They include:
- Desserts such as ice cream, sorbet, and milkshake
- Soups served lukewarmly
- Pudding
- Eggs
- Soaked Oatmeals
- Yogurt, either frozen or at room temperature, with no added fruit or nuts
- Jello
What to eat 2-5 Days After Tooth Extraction
By the second day, your blood clots will be more stable and less likely to break. And this development will allow you to introduce hot foods again gradually.
Here, what you should eat after tooth extraction are edibles requiring little chewing effort. They include:
- Chicken and beef mince products
- Eggs
- Frozen or regular bread yogurt, with or without fruit chunks
- Pasta\Noodles
- Vegetables that are easy to chew, such as heated mashed potatoes and other soft vegetables
- Cheese/Soups
What You Should Eat in Final Recovery Periods (5 days and above)
You may be feeling way better at this stage. Your mouth should feel more comfortable to take in hotter foods and edibles a bit harder.
The rigour it took to extract your teeth will be a major determinant if you can start eating harder stuff at this point. If it was easy, you could add tougher food to your diet.
But you may want to continue with foods in the previous stage for longer if your extraction was difficult.
During this phase, you can eat whatever you choose. But these edibles should still be reasonably soft and moderately chewable foods.
What Not to Eat After Tooth Extraction?
The following are foods to avoid after tooth extraction. And this precaution contributes to tooth extraction aftercare.
- Anything challenging to grind
- Rigid foods
- Scorching hot snacks and meals
- Nuts and Seeds
- Rice
- Popcorn
Related Article: How Long Does a Root Canal Treatment Take?
Summary
There are limitations to what you can eat after tooth extraction. Essentially, you’re to avoid hard edibles and embrace incredibly soft ones.
Ensuring you eat the correct food starts with getting adequate dental attention. You need sufficient information before, during, and after your extraction process. Therefore, you should enlist a top-notch dental clinic that can answer all your pertinent questions and provide guidance where necessary.
Osmin Denture offers comprehensive tooth extraction treatments and aftercare. We’re attentive to your peculiarities and ensure you get the best experience with your tooth extraction process. Call us today to book a session.
