Tooth extractio can be really painful, and the last thing you probably want to deal with is a bunch of restrictions over what you can and can’t eat. Sadly, given the fragile nature of your mouth after the surgery, there are bound to be some limitations.
But worry not! We have prepared a list of finger-licking food options you can try, even with swollen gums and a stiff jaw. So, rather than dwelling on what to eat after tooth extraction, continue reading this blog to spice up your diet.
When Can You Eat After Extraction Surgery?
Dentists typically recommend waiting for the numbness in your jaw to fade before attempting to eat. This is so you don’t accidentally bite down on your tongue and cheek, injuring yourself. The numbness can take anywhere from an hour to four hours to fade, depending on the nature of your surgery.
However, as long as you can feel your mouth, you can go ahead and grab something to eat. But make sure the food is at room temperature and doesn’t require chewing.
What To Eat After Tooth Extraction
Just because you had a tooth or two pulled out doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy fine dining! The only difference is that your food needs to be pureed or cooked until it melts into your mouth. The less chewing, the better! This can seem pretty bleak at first, but there are plenty of food variations you can try. Plus, if you’re a picky eater, you can pick something that suits your tastebuds from the following list
1. Applesauce
Nothing compares to a hearty bowl of applesauce. Not only does it uplift your soul, but it also doesn’t irritate your gums
2. Cottage Cheese
If you have the habit of nibbling on something, then try cottage cheese. It’s soft, spongy, and packed with calcium.
3. Hummus
Hummus is a smooth chickpea dip filled to the brim with nutrients, given its list of organic ingredients. It’s easy to swallow and makes for an amazing snack.
4. Ice Cream
Everyone loves ice cream, whether sick or in good health. Its cold, creamy texture is perfect for soothing post-extraction pain, so feel free to satiate your sweet tooth with a tub of your favorite ice cream
5. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are rich in antioxidants, making this classic creamy dish an excellent choice in terms of comfort and taste
6. Oatmeal
A lot of people love oatmeal because of how flexible it is. You can have it as something savory or turn it into a dessert, all based on your personal preferences
7. Pasta
Rather than sticking to al-dente, boil your pasta until it is completely cooked through. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal without irritating the tooth extraction site
8. Pudding
Chocolate, vanilla, mango — the flavors are endless! Since pudding is soft and easy to swallow, it makes for the perfect post-op snack.
9. Scrambled Eggs
The great thing about eggs is that they are extremely versatile. Simply scramble some eggs and add your favorite toppings to turn it into a hearty meal.
10. Soup
Be it a cooked soup or broth, all pureed options are great after tooth extraction. But make sure the soup is not too hot, or it might damage the stitches.
11. Steamed Fish
Any fish that does not have bones in it is a great and filling meal option. To prevent rupturing the extraction wound, cook the fish to perfection so it melts in your mouth when eating
12. Yogurt
You can’t go wrong with Greek yogurt. Add chopped-up fruits in it or get a flavored yogurt, the options to dress it up are endless. Not to mention, it’s packed with protein, calcium, and so much more
Closing Word
The bottom line is you can eat hundreds of food variations after tooth extraction. Rather than compromising on taste, you just have to be careful with the temperature of the food and its texture. Nevertheless, for more information, feel free to contact Signature Smiles at the following locations
Irving Location: 3654 N Belt Line Rd, Irving, TX 75062, United States
Contact Number: (214) 307-4715
Plano Location: 5072 W Plano Pkwy Suite 270, Plano, TX 75093, United States
Contact Number: (214) 307-4755