Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure. Proper post-operative care, especially regarding your diet, is crucial for a smooth recovery. Following dietary guidelines helps facilitate healing and minimizes complications.
First Hours After Surgery
After wisdom teeth removal, wait until the anesthesia completely wears off before eating or drinking. During the initial 12 to 24 hours, focus on clear liquids and extremely soft, cool foods. This helps avoid dislodging the blood clot that forms in the extraction site, which protects the underlying bone and nerves.
Lukewarm or room-temperature options like broth, pureed soups, or applesauce are good choices. Cold foods such as yogurt, Jell-O, or pudding can also soothe the area and reduce discomfort. Avoid using straws during this period, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot, potentially leading to complications.
Safe and Unsafe Food Choices
For the first few days to a week after surgery, continue a soft diet. Recommended foods require minimal chewing, such as scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, and well-cooked pasta. Smoothies without seeds, hummus, and instant oatmeal are also good choices. Protein-rich options like Greek yogurt and soft fish, such as baked salmon or tilapia, support tissue repair.
Avoid certain foods for at least five to seven days to prevent complications. Hard, crunchy foods like nuts, popcorn, chips, and crackers can get lodged in the extraction site, causing irritation or infection. Sticky or chewy foods, such as caramel or chewing gum, can disrupt healing or dislodge the blood clot. Spicy or acidic foods, including hot peppers, citrus juices, and vinegar, can irritate the extraction site, slowing healing. Also avoid extremely hot foods and beverages, as they can increase swelling and irritation.
Why Dietary Care Matters
Following dietary restrictions after wisdom teeth removal prevents complications and promotes proper healing. A protective blood clot forms in the socket to shield exposed bone and nerves. Disturbing this clot can lead to dry socket (alveolar osteitis), where the clot fails to form or becomes dislodged, leaving nerves exposed. This condition causes pain and may require additional dental intervention.
Improper food choices can introduce bacteria into the surgical site, increasing infection risk. Hard or difficult-to-chew foods stress the jaw and healing tissue, prolonging pain and swelling. Proper nutrition, including protein, vitamins, and minerals, supports tissue repair and bolsters the immune system for a smoother recovery. Avoiding irritating foods minimizes discomfort, allowing the body to focus on healing.
Moving Towards a Regular Diet
The progression back to a normal diet should be gradual, over a few days to a week, depending on individual healing. After the initial 24 to 72 hours of liquid and very soft foods, introduce semi-soft options. These might include well-cooked pasta, soft vegetables, or tender chicken and beef cut into small pieces.
By the end of the first week, many are ready to reintroduce more solid foods, provided healing is progressing well and there’s no discomfort. Start with slightly firmer soft foods, such as soft bread without crusts or flaky fish, before transitioning to a fully regular diet. Chew on the side opposite the extraction site and take small bites to prevent disturbing the healing area. Listen to your body and return to softer foods if pain or discomfort occurs.