After wisdom teeth removal surgery, you'll need to eat nutritious soft foods during the recovery process.
Wisdom tooth removal is widespread and many people need to have their wisdom teeth removed to ensure optimal dental health. Wisdom teeth extraction helps prevent crowding, infection, and tooth decay.
Knowing what to eat after you've had your wisdom teeth removed will ensure a smooth recovery. The wound healing process takes a few weeks. During that time, you can only drink liquid and soft foods.
Thankfully, there are plenty of delicious foods and tasty treats you can still enjoy after dental surgery.
For the first seven days, only stick to soft foods and liquids. All solid foods are off-limits for the first week. You'll also need to avoid cold and hot foods to avoid irritating the gum area.
27 SOFT FOODS TO EAT AFTER WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL
Here are some of the best soft-textured foods you can eat after wisdom tooth surgery. All of these foods are gentle and promote wound healing.
FRUITS
AVOCADO
Avocados are loaded with healthy fats and since they're creamy, they're approved on the list of wisdom teeth removal foods.
Mashed avocado can be enjoyed with a little salt and paired with approved soft foods. It may be tempting to make guacamole. However, during this time, you'll need to stay away from citrusy foods such as limes and lemons as they can irritate the surgery wound.
APPLE SAUCE
The adage, 'an apple a day keeps the doctor away,' rings true. While you can't eat a solid apple just yet, apple sauce is the next best thing.
Pureed apple sauce is a wonderful soft food to enjoy after your wisdom tooth extraction. It takes minimal chewing effort and is loaded with antioxidants and vitamin C. Vitamin C strengthens your immune system and fights free radicals in the body.
Enjoy store bought varieties or make your apple sauce at home.
MASHED BANANAS
The soft texture of bananas makes them a very versatile food. Bananas are super-rich in potassium, a vital mineral that promotes heart health and low blood pressure. They're also high in vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin A, and magnesium.
For breakfast, enjoy a mashed banana with a drizzle of maple syrup or honey. You can also integrate bananas into smoothies, Greek yogurt, or steel cut oats.
SMOOTHIES
Maintain a nutritious diet with the help of smoothies. The smooth and creamy texture of smoothies makes them the perfect food to enjoy after wisdom teeth removal. A smoothie can become a well-rounded meal substitute. You can add protein powder, greek yogurt, and milk. This is a great way to up your protein intake and aid wound healing. Add in your favorite fruits and blend.
Smoothies are packed with fiber, vitamins, and nutrients. To keep smoothies healthy, try to use fruits low on the glycemic index, such as apples, strawberries, blueberries, and peaches. This will help prevent high sugar spikes.
Avoid putting ice into the smoothie, and do not use a straw. Sucking liquid through a straw can put 'pull-tension' and pressure onto the healing site. You can take gentle sips or use a spoon to enjoy your smoothie.
CANNED PEACHES
Canned peaches and other soft canned fruits can be consumed after wisdom teeth surgery. Ideally, you should cut up canned fruit or mash it to make it easier to eat after wisdom teeth removal. Test out the texture first with just a few bites. If the chewing effort is minimal, you're good to go.
VEGETABLES
MASHED POTATOES
Mashed potatoes are a cozy comfort food that you can eat after wisdom teeth removal. Boil potatoes and add butter and milk and salt and pepper to taste. Indulge in the savory and smooth consistency while also helping the wound healing process.
Mashed potatoes contribute to a healthy diet. Potatoes are rich in potassium, fiber, and vitamin B6. They provide nutrients that support a healthy metabolism.
Just make sure your mashed potatoes are served warm or room temperature. Hot foods are off-limits after wisdom tooth surgery.
MASHED SWEET POTATOES
A sweeter variety of potatoes, sweet potatoes offer great health benefits. They come in orange, purple, and white varieties. They're rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
They also promote gut health since they contain antioxidants and soluble and insoluble fibers. The fibers help digestion, and the antioxidants promote healthy gut bacteria. They also have cancer-fighting properties and help sharpen your vision.
To make homemade mashed sweet potatoes, boil potatoes and add in butter, milk, and your favorite seasonings. They can be enjoyed with sweet toppings such as whipped cream and honey or savory toppings such as sour cream or dressing.
PUMPKIN PUREE
If pumpkin is off-season in your area, opt for canned pumpkin. It comes pureed or mashed and is safe to eat after wisdom tooth extraction.
Pumpkin is highly nutritious and packed with vitamin A, antioxidants, potassium, and vitamin C. It's a powerhouse winter squash that boosts immunity, improves your eyesight, and lowers your risk of certain diseases.
Mix pumpkin puree with instant oatmeal oats, apple sauce, pudding, smoothies, or soup. It's a versatile food to eat after wisdom teeth surgery.
MASHED CAULIFLOWER
Buttery mashed cauliflower is another savory food to enjoy after dental surgery. If you prefer a more low-carb option or fewer starches, mashed cauliflower offers a similar smooth consistency.
It's a delicious snack that can be enjoyed with butter, milk, and flavorful seasoning. You can make cauliflower puree for soups, pasta sauces, and hummus.
Cauliflower is a weight loss friendly food that is high in fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and vitamin B6. It's also high in fiber and antioxidants.
GREEN JUICE
Since you've just had your wisdom teeth removed, the next best thing to raw solid foods and vegetables is green juice. Green vegetable juice is an effective way to get your daily vitamins and nutrients. Green juice may also help excess inflammation after wisdom teeth removal.
In a blender, add water and dark green vegetables such as leafy kale, spinach, swiss chard, or romaine. Add in an apple, pineapple, or grapes to infuse a touch of sweetness. As your base liquid, you can use regular water or coconut water. If you prefer a green smoothie use almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk.
DAIRY
SCRAMBLED EGGS
Scrambled eggs are a fantastic source of high-quality protein. The healthy fats in eggs aid wound healing and keep you full. Since they're a nutritious high protein food, eggs help curb cravings and keep you satiated for longer.
Eggs are incredibly nutritious and high in selenium, vitamin B2, and phosphorus. And while yes, they are high in cholesterol, don't be deterred; they're high in the 'good' cholesterol and do not adversely affect blood cholesterol.
However, not all eggs are healthy, and the ones you buy matter. Opt for organic pasteurized eggs that are higher in omega-3 fatty acids. These hens are healthier and produce eggs that have a better nutritional composition.
Slowly cook your scrambled eggs over medium-low heat and season with salt and pepper to keep them ultra-soft.
COTTAGE CHEESE
Just because you're healing from wisdom tooth removal surgery doesn't mean you have to partake in a low protein diet. You can still get your daily protein intake from dairies such as cottage cheese, greek yogurt, and milk. Cottage cheese does not heavily require chewing and can be mixed with apple sauce, pumpkin puree, honey, or jam.
GREEK YOGURT
Eating greek yogurt will increase protein intake significantly. A typical serving of yogurt contains 15 to 20 grams of protein.
Why is protein so important? Your body needs high-protein healthy foods for proper wound healing. Protein helps your body repair muscle, skin, and gum tissue. Protein also helps your body fight infection. Try to incorporate protein at every meal after wisdom tooth removal.
Since you can't eat meat at the moment, yogurt is an excellent alternative to solid food. Enjoy it with honey, jam, or your favorite herbal seasoning.
SOUR CREAM
Sour cream is a tasty condiment that you can enjoy with soup, refried beans, or mashed potatoes. It is high in fat, and while it does offer some nutrients and benefits, it's not as nutrient-dense as other foods. Sour cream is rich in calcium, phosphorus, selenium, vitamin A, and vitamin E.
MILK
Whole milk is packed with many health benefits. It's a good source of high-quality protein rich in calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. Drinking milk improves bone health and helps your body repair itself faster.
Milk can be added to mashed potatoes, smoothies, and chocolate milk. It's a nutritious drink to enjoy after you've had your wisdom teeth removed.
KEFIR
Kefir is a tangy yogurt drink full of probiotics, protein, and gut friendly nutrients. It's made out of fermented cow, goat, or sheep milk. Kefir has a thinner consistency than yogurt making it easy to drink.
SOFT FOODS
INSTANT OATMEAL
A delicious breakfast to enjoy after wisdom teeth surgery is oatmeal. Instant oatmeal is quick to prepare and requires minimal chewing. There are tons of sweet and savory recipes available online.
RAMEN NOODLES
Chopped up and cooked ramen noodles are safe to eat. Just make sure the ramen isn't too hot.
REFRIED BEANS
Enjoy soft refried beans with sour cream and your favorite seasoning. Make sure they're not too spicy.
BLENDED SOUPS
Blended soups may be a soft food staple after you've had your wisdom teeth removed. Their smooth consistency makes the easy to eat and there are many flavors to choose from. Soups are high in nutrients and help you stay properly hydrated.
Avoid super hot soups. The soup can be warm but remember, hot liquids should be avoided during your healing process.
Ideas for soups:
- Pumpkin soup
- Tomato soup
- Roasted carrot soup
- Broccoli soup
- Cauliflower soup
- Butternut squash soup
- Blended black bean soup
- Roasted corn soup
BONE BROTH
Bone broth is a superfood for your gut health and it's also packed with protein. On average, a cup of bone broth contains 15 grams of protein. Bone broth is made out of simmering animal bones and connective tissue.
Many chefs and home cooks use stock as a base for soup, sauce, and gravy. It's deeply flavorful and comforting. Broth can be sipped directly or worked into soft food dishes.
Bone broth helps people manage their weight, stay hydrated, and improve their gut bacteria. It's safe to eat bone brother after wisdom teeth surgery. Just make sure the broth is not too hot.
HUMMUS
Hummus is a Mediterranean dip traditionally enjoyed with pita bread or pita chips. It's made out of garbanzo beans, tahini, garlic, and olive oil. While you'll have to pass on the bread and chips, you can still enjoy hummus after your wisdom teeth removal.
Hummus is packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and protein from the garbanzo beans. You'll need a food processor or blender to make your own hummus at home. There are also plenty of sweet and savory hummus options at your local supermarket.
DESSERT
Sweeter foods should be enjoyed sparingly. In general, sugary foods can cause risks to your oral health. However, we all need a sweet treat every now and then, especially after wisdom teeth removal.
Here are a few tasty treats you can safely enjoy.
PUDDING
Pudding comes in many delicious flavors, such as chocolate, vanilla, butterscotch, and banana cream pie. The smooth texture makes it safe to eat after having your wisdom teeth removed. Make your pudding from scratch or enjoy pudding packs from the local grocery store.
ICE CREAM
While ice cream is technically a cold food, however, it's okay to enjoy ice cream after wisdom teeth surgery. The key is to allow the ice cream to soften first. Let the carton of ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes. The ice cream may also help temporarily soothe gum inflammation.
Enjoy plain flavors such as vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate. Avoid flavors with hard add-ins such as mint chocolate chip, chocolate chip cookie dough, and rocky road. These ice cream varieties can slow down the healing process if hard food gets lodged in the tooth extraction site. It can also irritate or lead to infection.
WHIPPED CREAM
Fluffy, light, and gentle in texture, whipped cream can be enjoyed after wisdom teeth surgery. Enjoy it over chocolate milk, ice cream, or pudding.
SORBET
Sorbet is a great dairy-free alternative to ice cream. It's soft enough to eat after your wisdom teeth surgery and comes in a variety of flavors. Sorbet comes in many fruity flavors such as raspberry, apple, pear, strawberry, watermelon, chocolate, and blueberry.
Sorbet is also packed with many vitamins and nutrients such as vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. Sorbet is also a healthier alternative to ice cream since they're lower in fat and calories. If you're watching your weight, the sorbet will satisfy that sweet tooth and help you reach your goals.
You'll need to avoid citrus flavors such as lemon and lime until the extraction site thoroughly heals.
CHEESECAKE
Yes, you can eat cheesecake. As long as it's a flavor with no hard toppings, you're good to go.
FOODS TO AVOID EATING AFTER SURGERY
While there are many soft foods you can eat after wisdom teeth removal, there are certain foods you'll need to steer clear of until the extraction wounds heal.
Here are the foods to avoid after the dentist has extracted your wisdom teeth.
CRUNCHY FOODS
Potato chips, popcorn, cookies, and crackers are all on the 'do not eat' list after your dental procedure. These foods can get lodged into the wound and slow down the healing process.
HARD FOODS
Foods such as beef jerky, cucumbers, and meat are off-limits. Hard foods require intense chewing effort. Pressure on the extraction site can cause bleeding or rupturing of the stitches.
CHEWY OR STICKY FOODS
No sticky candies or chewy foods while you're healing. This includes taffy, gum, licorice, toffee, and caramel. Sticky foods can get stuck to your teeth and cause infections.
SPICY FOODS
Stay away from spicy dishes, jalapeños, and hot sauces. Spicy foods cause a burning sensation in your mouth that may irritate and inflame your wounds.
ACIDIC FOODS
You'll need to avoid acidic and citrusy foods such as lemons, limes, grapefruits, and oranges.
SEEDS
Grains and seeds are also risky to eat after your wisdom teeth surgery. Hard particles can get stuck in your wound and slow down the healing process. You'll need to stay away from granola, chia seed pudding, and energy bars.
ALCOHOL OR TOBACCO
Alcohol and tobacco usage will slow down the healing process and may cause irritation. During this time will most likely also be taking prescribed antibiotics and pain medication. Drinking alcohol can interfere with the effectiveness of those medications.
Smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco is also unhealthy to indulge in after wisdom teeth removal. Your oral health could be greatly compromised.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I start eating seven days after wisdom teeth removal?
Following the first day, you can eat warmed soft meals such as scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, soups, or well-cooked vegetables. Return to your usual course diet without hard and fried foods, potato chips, crispy bread, or cereals for at least seven days, or until your surgeon says so.
What can I eat immediately after wisdom teeth removal?
Eat only liquids and soft meals during the first 24 to 48 hours, such as yogurt, apple sauce, and ice cream. Cold meals may alleviate some of the pain. As you feel better, you can begin to include more solid foods. Try eggs, bread, or oatmeal on the third day following surgery.
Can you eat pasta after wisdom teeth removal?
Pasta is an appropriate meal for use in post-surgical eating. Be sure pasta is cooked extra soft and be careful in chewing pasta to ensure no food particles get stuck in the surgery area. Consider swallowing smaller noodles whole.
How long after wisdom teeth removal can I eat normally?
Many individuals report that they can resume regular eating habits within a week after having their wisdom teeth out. Maintaining a soft and healthy diet in the days and weeks following wisdom tooth surgery is critical to your recovery. Even if you feel fine, you may want to avoid especially difficult foods like nuts and popcorn.
How long after wisdom teeth removal can I whiten my teeth?
You can start whitening your teeth as soon as you are healed, including your stitches, as any products with hydrogen peroxide can cause dry socket. You can use a teeth whitening kit as soon as your doctor has cleared you are healed. Avoid whitening strips and toothpaste for at least a week after the extractions are done.
SUMMARY
After you've had your wisdom teeth removed, you'll need to eat soft food until you're fully healed. Thankfully, there are plenty of fruits, vegetables, savory foods, and sweets to tide you over as your wounds heal.
Be gentle with your diet, and you'll be feeling 100 percent in no time. Though it may be tempting to enjoy your favorite crunchy snacks and solid foods, you'll have to wait at least a week before you can start eating regular foods again. Avoid crunchy and hard foods, spicy and acidic foods, and alcohol.
