Whether you’ve recently had your wisdom teeth removed or undergone a more extensive dental procedure, it’s important to take care of your oral health during the recovery process. One of the key factors in a successful recovery is maintaining a nutritious and balanced diet.
Eating can be difficult and uncomfortable after oral surgery, which is why we’ve compiled a list of foods that will provide your body with the necessary nutrients to heal. From soft and easily digestible options to foods that promote healing and reduce discomfort, Parkcrest Dental Group covers some of the top foods recommended by dentists to eat after oral surgery.
Dental Procedures That Might Require Changing Your Diet Temporarily
After undergoing dental surgery, it’s important to make temporary changes to your diet in order to aid in the healing process. Certain procedures can greatly impact your ability to eat certain foods.
With wisdom teeth removal, it’s common for individuals to experience swelling, tenderness, and discomfort. As a result, a soft diet is often recommended to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the surgical area.
Tooth extractions can also require a modified diet. This is because chewing on the extraction site can cause further pain and damage.
Dental implants and implant-supported denture surgery involve the placement of titanium posts into the jawbone. In order for the implants to fuse with the bone properly, it’s crucial to avoid hard and chewy foods that can disrupt the healing process.
Foods You Can Eat Depend on the Surgery You Have
The types of foods you can eat after oral surgery depend on the specific procedure you’ve undergone. Each surgery comes with its own set of dietary restrictions and guidelines to ensure a successful recovery.
For procedures like wisdom teeth removal or major tooth extractions, a liquid diet may be necessary in the first few days following surgery. This allows your mouth to heal without the added pressure of chewing. Once the initial healing period is over, you can gradually introduce soft foods into your diet.
The key is to avoid anything that is hard, chewy, or crunchy, as these can irritate the surgical site and slow down the healing process. It’s also important to avoid overly hot or cold foods as those can cause more discomfort. So, please avoid ice or icy drinks as well as hot coffee and tea. If you eat soup or smoothies, make sure you don’t put ice in the smoothies and let the soup cool down a little bit before eating.
General Guidelines for Eating Food After Oral Surgery
When it comes to eating after oral surgery, there are some general guidelines that can help ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
Choose Soft, Nutritious Foods
First and foremost, it’s important to choose soft, nutrient-dense foods that are easy to eat and digest. Opt for things like smoothies, mashed potatoes, soups, and yogurt that provide plenty of nutrients your body needs to heal.
Avoid Irritating Foods
In addition to choosing soft foods, it’s important to avoid hard, spicy, or acidic foods that can irritate the surgical site. These types of foods can cause discomfort and slow down the healing process. Stick to gentle flavors and avoid anything that may cause inflammation or further pain.
Stay Hydrated
It’s also crucial to stay hydrated during the recovery process. Drinking plenty of water will help keep your mouth clean and promote healing. Avoid using a straw, as the sucking motion can dislodge blood clots and increase the risk of complications.
Be sure to follow all your dentist’s instructions regarding food after surgery. They may provide you with additional guidelines based on your unique situation.
List of Foods to Eat After Oral Surgery & Their Benefits
After oral surgery, it’s important to consume foods that promote healing and provide the necessary nutrients your body needs to recover. Here are 10 nutritious foods recommended by dentists.
- Greek Yogurt: Rich in protein and probiotics, Greek yogurt helps support the healing process and promotes healthy digestion.
- Protein Smoothies: Blending protein powder with fruits and vegetables creates a nutrient-dense and easily digestible meal replacement.
- Scrambled Eggs: Soft and high in protein, scrambled eggs provide essential vitamins and minerals. The protein can help build up your gums to make them strong after your oral surgery.
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Packed with vitamins and minerals, mashed sweet potatoes are easy to eat and offer a good source of energy for healing.
- Cooked Vegetables: Steamed or boiled vegetables like carrots, peas, and broccoli are easy to chew and provide vital nutrients.
- Soup: Warm, homemade soups like chicken noodle or vegetable broth are easy to consume and can be packed with healthy ingredients. Try not to eat foods that are very hot, which is why you should keep the soup warm.
- Soft Pasta: Cooked pasta with a soft texture is a good source of carbohydrates, which provide energy for healing.
- Smooth Nut Butters: Nut butters like almond or peanut butter are soft and rich in healthy fats and proteins, which can aid recovery of your gums.
- Applesauce: A soft and easily digestible option, applesauce is rich in vitamins and can help soothe any discomfort.
- Cottage Cheese: Soft and packed with protein, cottage cheese provides important nutrients for recovery.
Remember to consult with your dentist before making any changes to your diet and to follow their specific instructions for a successful recovery.
Parkcrest Dental Group in Springfield, MO
Parkcrest Dental Group specializes in preventative care, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, and more. Contact us or call 417-887-1220 to make an appointment or if you have any questions.
