Staying hydrated and eating healthy after your wisdom teeth removal is an important factor for a healthy recovery. However, you may need to change some eating habits for the first week or so following the procedure. Here are some foods to eat, and some to avoid, during wisdom teeth recovery.
Eat. For the first few days after surgery, start by eating soft foods that don’t require chewing, such as:
- Soup
- Yogurt
- Soft noodles
- Eggs
- Cottage cheese
- Apple sauce
- Pudding
- Mashed potatoes
- Smoothies (TIP: Don’t drink through a straw. It could dislodge your blood clot or ruin stitches.)
Avoid. Some foods can easily get into the sockets and in teeth and cause pain and damage to the healing wounds. Avoid eating foods like:
- Sticky candy
- Chewing gum
- Hard, crunchy food like chips, pretzels, nuts, and seeds
- Extremely hot food
Getting your wisdom teeth removed is a procedure you should take seriously but not something to fear. The recovery period usually takes a few days, and, in some cases, there may still be swelling and discomfort for a week or more. You can help reduce pain and prevent infection by using ice packs, enjoying soft foods, and keeping your mouth clean with salt water. Don’t hesitate to call your oral surgeon if you notice any unusual symptoms after your surgery. They will help get you on the road to recovery and back to a healthy and confident smile.