Wisdom teeth removal can leave anyone wondering about their next meal. After the whole ordeal is done, you need both soothing and satisfying foods for a comfortable recovery. From creamy soups to refreshing smoothies, here’s what to eat after wisdom teeth removal.
What Happens During Wisdom Teeth Removal?
It’s a common scenario – you go in for a routine dental cleaning and exam, and it ends with your dentist recommending wisdom teeth removal. But why would you need that? You’re probably not even experiencing any discomfort, and you’ve got strong and healthy teeth.
Here’s the gist of it – usually between the ages of 17 and 25, these third molars at the back of your mouth start to grow in. It’s like the dental right of passage into adulthood. However, they can sometimes get stuck, potentially creating a string of complications in the long run.
Luckily, there’s a quick and easy solution, which usually lasts not more than an hour per wisdom tooth. It’s routine dental work, where the tooth is extracted, and the site is cleaned and stitched up, all under local anesthesia.
In recent years, advanced laser dentistry has been creating waves for a completely non-invasive treatment. Either way, this is a super common procedure – in fact, according to the National Library of Medicine, around 5 million extractions take place each year in the US alone.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
This is an outpatient dental procedure, meaning you can go home right after it’s done. The recovery period usually takes one to two weeks. During this healing process, getting the right vitamins and minerals is crucial, so stocking up on foods for after wisdom teeth removal is a key step in preparation.
Why Is It Important to Know What to Eat After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Besides speeding up the healing process and providing the necessary nourishment, knowing what to eat after wisdom teeth surgery can help:
- Reduce swelling,
- Prevent natural blood clots from dislodging,
- Avoid infections and other complications, such as dry sockets.
What to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal? Start With a Liquid Diet
During the first few days of your recovery, your diet should be based on liquids or very soft foods that require no chewing. Let’s take a look at some super nourishing and delicious options to kick off your healing process the right way.
Blended Soups and Broths Provide Excellent Nourishment
Blended soups, including tomato and pumpkin soup, are the best foods for wisdom teeth removal for several reasons. They are very easy to consume, packed with nutrients, and will help you stay hydrated – all of this is crucial for recovery.
Broths are also a great source of nourishment. Besides vitamins and minerals, they are also high in amino acids, beneficial for their anti-inflammatory properties. Be it a vegetable soup or a bone broth, just make sure you eat them lukewarm or cold to avoid irritation.
Smoothies and Greek Yogurt Are Nutrient-Packed Treats
When trying to figure out what to eat after tooth extraction, smoothies are a popular choice. That’s because they offer a delicious way to get the nutrients you need, and you’ve got plenty of combinations to explore.
Some research shows that high-protein foods can be essential for recovery. To boost your protein intake, you can always add some Greek yogurt to your smoothie. Just remember not to use a straw during the first 48 hours, as this can dislodge the blood clot forming over the extraction site. And wonderful news – ice cream can be a great soothing treat.
Mash up Your Food After Wisdom Teeth Removal
As you’re slowly transitioning into solids, knowing which soft foods to eat after wisdom teeth removal becomes paramount. The first thing that comes to mind is, of course, mashed potatoes. They’re rich in nutrients and calories, both crucial for recovery. Your mashed potatoes should be completely smooth, with no chunks in there to prevent irritating your wound.
Besides potatoes, here are some other foods you can mash up and enjoy:
- Bananas – a rich source of potassium and vitamin B6,
- Avocado – low in carbs but a rich source of healthy fats, potassium, and vitamins C and K,
- Pumpkin – rich in potassium, as well as vitamins A, C, and E.
Scrambled Eggs and Oatmeal Are Excellent Breakfast Options
If you need more than a smoothie to fill you up in the morning, scrambled eggs and oatmeal are both great options, packed with the nutrients you need during this time. Just remember to get instant oats, as they’re the softest option available. Add some mashed bananas, and voilà – you’ve got the breakfast of champions.
Create Meals Around Tofu or Salmon to Get Your Much-Needed Protein Fix
Tofu is a rich source of fats, carbs, and essential amino acids, which are all crucial for the healing process. It’s also a great way to get your protein in, as is salmon. So, you should create your bigger meals around these options, maybe with some avocado and mashed potatoes. They’re quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and, best of all – delicious.
Visit Aspire Dental Wellness for a Comfortable Experience Throughout
Recovery is much more than just knowing what things to eat after wisdom teeth removal. It requires plenty of hydration, sleep, and relaxation. This all starts with choosing a Charlotte dentist in SouthPark who is right for the job. Our team at Aspire Dental Wellness, led by Dr. Sladjana Bjelac, provides not only expert care but does it with your comfort as a top priority.
Our holistic dentistry practice looks at your overall well-being, and we also offer completely non-invasive dental laser treatments, the pinnacle of stress-free dentistry. Wondering if you’re in need of wisdom teeth removal? Contact us to reserve an appointment and get it checked out – see just how comfortable this whole process can be from the moment you sit on our dental chair.
