Wisdom teeth removal is a common oral surgical procedure. Proper care following this procedure is important for effective healing and to prevent complications. Dietary choices play a significant role in recovery, supporting healing and minimizing discomfort.
The First Few Days of Eating
For the initial 24 to 72 hours after wisdom teeth removal, a diet of liquids and very soft foods is advised. This helps protect the blood clot that forms in the extraction site, which is important for healing. Eating soft foods also minimizes chewing, reducing strain on the surgical area and aiding comfort.
Suitable options include clear broths, lukewarm or cool pureed soups, and creamy foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, and applesauce. Smoothies and milkshakes are also appropriate; however, use a spoon rather than a straw to avoid suction that could dislodge the blood clot. Other examples include scrambled eggs (which provide protein) and mashed bananas.
Progressing Towards Normal Foods
Gradually reintroducing firmer foods typically begins after the initial few days, with the exact timeline varying based on individual healing and extraction complexity. After the first 24 hours, semi-soft foods like pasta, soft-cooked vegetables, cottage cheese, and well-cooked fish can be introduced if comfort allows. Shredded chicken or beef, if well-cooked and not overly chewy, can also be added.
Many individuals can incorporate more solid foods requiring some chewing around five to seven days post-surgery. While a near-normal diet is often possible within one to two weeks, complete healing of the extraction sites takes longer. Listen to your body and revert to softer foods if pain or discomfort arises when eating firmer textures. Chewing away from the extraction sites can also protect the healing area during this transition.
Foods to Avoid During Recovery
Certain foods should be avoided throughout recovery to prevent complications and support healing. Hard and crunchy foods, such as nuts, popcorn, chips, and hard candies, can break into small pieces that might get lodged in the extraction site, potentially leading to irritation or infection. These can also damage healing gums and cause pain.
Sticky and chewy foods, like caramel or jerky, can adhere to the surgical area and disrupt the blood clot, increasing the risk of complications such as dry socket. Acidic foods (e.g., citrus fruits, tomatoes) and spicy foods (e.g., chili, ginger) can irritate the surgical site and hinder healing. Very hot foods and beverages should also be avoided, as their temperature can increase swelling or dislodge the blood clot. Foods with small grains or seeds, such as quinoa or poppy seeds, can easily become trapped in the extraction site and are best avoided.
When to Seek Dental Advice
Be aware of signs that may indicate a complication requiring professional dental attention. Severe pain not improving with prescribed medication or worsening after the first few days could signal dry socket or infection. Dry socket, where the blood clot is lost, typically manifests as intense pain 1 to 3 days after extraction, often radiating to the ear, eye, temple, or neck, and may include a foul taste or smell.
Excessive or persistent bleeding beyond the first few hours warrants immediate contact with the oral surgeon or dentist. Swelling becoming more severe after 48 to 72 hours, or not subsiding, could indicate infection. Other concerning symptoms include fever, pus discharge, lasting numbness or tingling around the lips or tongue, and difficulty swallowing or breathing. Any unusual or concerning symptoms should prompt a call to a dental professional.