Wondering what foods to eat after wisdom teeth removal?
Getting wisdom teeth removed is standard practice nowadays. Most people get their wisdom teeth extracted because they are experiencing pain around the area. It could also be that their dentist recommended wisdom teeth removal because there is insufficient space for proper alignment in the mouth.
If you’re getting your wisdom teeth removed, you may have many questions, such as What is the process like? How long is the recovery period? and What can I eat afterwards? Read along to find out the answers.
What To Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom teeth are usually angulated or positioned differently from the rest of your teeth. So getting wisdom teeth removed may be a little tricky.
During the start of the wisdom teeth removal process, your dentist will create a treatment plan to extract the tooth safely. Good access to the teeth is vital for the success of the treatment. For that, some bone reduction or access via the gum flap may be needed. Once the dentist has gained full access to the tooth, they will gently pull it out. If sutures are required, the area will be carefully stitched. Finally, gauze will be placed on the wound to control any bleeding and promote blood clotting.
Recovery Process After Getting Wisdom Teeth Removed
For better and faster healing, there are two things you should do: rest and listen to your dentist. At least 48 hours of rest is recommended to allow your body to recover. You should expect some pain, but this is manageable with the prescribed pain relievers. Minimal bleeding, swelling, and jaw stiffness may also be experienced, but these are normal and should resolve within one to two days.
Your dentist will give you a set of guidelines, including your dos and don’ts after the treatment. Simply follow these to ensure a complication-free treatment. Along with these instructions is a list of what to eat after wisdom teeth surgery.
This is important to note because it will help speed up your recovery period.
A Guide On What To Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Days 1 – 2
Immediately after wisdom teeth removal, it is advised that you stick to a soft diet. Discomfort is highly likely, and this may be aggravated with solid foods that press against the fresh wound. Also, our dentists recommend that you consume warm or cold foods. Anything too hot may cause sensitivity on the extraction site.
Some foods that you can safely enjoy are:
- warm broths
- soups
- yogurts
- pudding
- jello
- smoothies
- applesauce
- ice cream
These foods have a great mix of nutrients that will aid in your recovery. Bone broth is especially beneficial as an anti-inflammatory and will help reduce swelling.
But during this time, avoid drinking with a straw to prevent disturbing the blood clot on the wound.
Days 3 – 4
As the wound heals, you can slowly start transitioning to soft solids. So aside from your usual soft food intake, you may eat mashed bananas or mashed potatoes. You can even try eating a banana ice cream for a change. These are packed with nutrients yet still very easy to chew and swallow so that they won’t cause any irritation to your wound.
Also, among the best foods that you can eat after getting your wisdom teeth removed are scrambled eggs. Eggs are an excellent source of Omega-3 fats, which are great for wound healing.
High protein foods and zinc-rich foods are also crucial to favourable recovery. Some of these are cottage cheese, greek yogurt, and milk.
With ample nutrition integrated into your everyday meals, it will put you on the road to faster healing.
Day 5 – onwards
You still have to watch what you eat as you come to a full week after wisdom teeth removal, but with fewer restrictions this time. You can have salmon and even red meat. These foods have powerful benefits to your overall health that support your recovery process. But take it easy and make small bites. Soon, you’ll gradually return to your regular diet.
But because you are now taking in more food while the wound is still slowly recovering, you should never forget to keep the area clean. Foods that get stuck in the stitches of your wisdom teeth are notorious for causing bad breath, gum disease, and even infection.
To clean the wound, you can use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gently rinse your mouth with warm saltwater for disinfection.
Wisdom Teeth Removal at Beyond Dental Care
After wisdom teeth extraction, aftercare is critical when it comes to healing. With our handy guide on what to do and what to eat after wisdom teeth removal, you will be well on your way to recovery with few to zero chances of complications.
At Beyond Dental Care, we have a team of highly skilled dentists who will guide you through a smooth surgery and recovery process. To schedule a consultation for wisdom teeth removal, get in touch with us today.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
WebMD – Dental Health and Wisdom Teeth
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/wisdom-teeth
Healthline – What Is Bone Broth, and What Are the Benefits?
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/bone-broth-101
PubMed – Omega-3 fatty acids effect on wound healing
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18471252/
Healthline – 16 Delicious High Protein Foods
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/high-protein-foods
PubMed – Zinc in wound healing: theoretical, experimental, and clinical aspects
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17244314/
Healthline – Does Red Meat Have Health Benefits? A Look at the Science
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/is-red-meat-bad-for-you-or-good#nutrition
