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What to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal

Figuring out what to eat after having your wisdom teeth removed can be a bit tricky, especially when your mouth is sore and your appetite is off. Fortunately, our Point Pleasant dentist is here to guide you through the best things to eat (and what to avoid) after your extraction so you can recover comfortably and get back to your usual routine with fewer bumps along the way. Learn more below!


Why Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Wisdom teeth usually appear in your late teens or early twenties, and for a lot of people, they end up causing problems, which is why having them removed is so common. Here are a few of the main reasons dentists recommend taking them out: 


Impaction

In some cases, wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to break through the gums fully. When that happens, they can become impacted, which can cause pain, swelling, and even infections. Impacted teeth often need to be surgically removed before they lead to more serious issues.


Overcrowding

If your mouth is already tight on space, wisdom teeth can push your other teeth out of alignment as they come in; this could undo years of orthodontic work, cause bite problems, or just make your mouth feel uncomfortable.


Cavities and Gum Disease

Because wisdom teeth are in the back of the mouth, they tend to be harder to reach with a toothbrush or floss. Over time, this makes them more likely to trap food, collect plaque, and develop cavities or gum infections.


Preventative Removal

Even if your wisdom teeth aren’t causing issues now, your dentist may still recommend removing them because they could become an issue later, especially if they’re growing in at an angle or showing signs of future impaction.


How Long Does It Take to Recover from Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Everyone heals a little differently after wisdom teeth removal, but most people start to feel better within a few days to two weeks. Those first few days are especially important, and what you eat during that time can make all the difference in how your recovery goes.


Importance of Diet After Surgery

Eating nourishing, easy-to-chew foods and staying hydrated after surgery will help your body heal, keep the swelling down, and lower your risk of complications like dry socket, which can happen if the blood clot at the extraction site gets dislodged. Not paying attention to your diet after surgery can slow down your recovery and make the healing process more uncomfortable. 


What to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal

In the initial days after surgery, your mouth will be sensitive, and you’ll need to stick to soft foods that are easy to chew and swallow. Here are some gentle, go-to options for the first few days: 

  • Soups
  • Broths
  • Scrambled eggs
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Greek yogurt
  • Smoothies
  • Applesauce 
  • Bananas 
  • Pudding
  • Ice cream 
  • Hummus 

What Can I Eat a Week After Wisdom Teeth Removal?

As your mouth starts to heal, you can slowly begin adding more solid foods back into your meals. Everyone’s recovery timeline is a little different, but by the end of the first week, you might be ready to try some easier-to-chew options, such as:

  • Soft-cooked vegetables
  • Pasta 
  • Rice
  • Fish
  • Cottage cheese

What Not to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal

While there are plenty of soft foods you can eat after getting your wisdom teeth out, there are also several you’ll absolutely want to keep away from while your mouth heals: 

  • Hard foods: Crunchy snacks like chips, nuts, or raw vegetables may poke or irritate the healing area and might even dislodge your blood clot. 
  • Spicy foods: Spicy seasonings can cause burning or irritation around the extraction site. 
  • Hot foods: Very hot meals or drinks could slow the healing process and increase your swelling or discomfort. 
  • Sticky foods: Treats like caramel, taffy, or chewy candies can stick to your teeth and the surgical site. 

Other Dos and Don’ts

Besides watching what you eat, here are a few other things to keep in mind while you’re healing: 

Dos

First, make sure to get plenty of rest. You can use ice packs on your cheeks to help with the swelling and discomfort; just be sure to do it during the first day or two after surgery for the best results. 

It’s also important to follow any aftercare instructions your dentist gives you. Whether it’s about medication, rinsing, or keeping the area clean, those guidelines help you heal faster and avoid potential complications.


Don’ts

Don’t use straws; suction can dislodge the blood clot that’s protecting your gums and lead to a painful condition called dry socket. Smoking will also slow down healing and increase your risk of infection and complications. If you smoke, try to avoid it for as long as you can after surgery. 

Finally, as tempting as it might be, try not to touch the extraction site with your fingers or tongue. Doing so can irritate the area and slow down healing. 


Frequently Asked Questions


When Can I Eat Solid Food After Tooth Extraction?

Most people can slowly start adding solid foods back into their diet about a week after getting their wisdom teeth out. That said, as mentioned above, everyone heals at a different pace, so listen to your body. If chewing still feels uncomfortable, stick with softer foods a little longer.


Can You Drink Alcohol After Wisdom Teeth Removal?

It’s generally best to steer clear of alcohol for at least a week after surgery. Alcohol can slow down the healing process and might not mix well with any pain medications or antibiotics your dentist prescribed. Even after a week, make sure your mouth is healing properly, and always double-check with your dentist if you’re unsure. 


Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Point Pleasant, NJ

Were you told you need your wisdom teeth removed? Coastal Dental Group can answer your questions and help you get the treatment you need. 

Give us a call at 732-714-1030 to learn more, or book an appointment today! 

About the Author: Dr. Joseph Zicchino provides a wide array of cosmetic dentistry services, including Invisalign® Clear Aligners, at his practice in Point Pleasant, NJ. He earned his dental degree from NYU Dental School and established Coastal Dental Group in 2004. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (732) 714-1030!