Getting your wisdom teeth removed requires eating softer foods for at least the first few days while your mouth is healing [1]. Eating soft foods can help reduce the chances of damaging your incisions and reduce discomfort while your body is repairing itself.

You can help make the healing process easier by ensuring you have plenty of soft or liquid foods to eat those first few days! So what are the best foods to eat after wisdom tooth removal?

Soups and Broths

Soups and broths are a great way to get nourishment while still protecting your healing smile. You can either blend soup into a puree or ensure that all ingredients in the soup are cooked until soft. However, when consuming soups and broth after wisdom tooth removal, it’s important to be sure they aren’t too hot. Consuming foods that are too hot can cause discomfort after oral surgery.

Smoothies and Yogurt

Cooler foods such as smoothies and yogurt can help reduce swelling and discomfort after wisdom tooth removal while providing nourishment. Yogurt can provide probiotics and calcium while smoothies can contain fruit and greens to help nourish your body. Try using frozen fruit in your smoothie to help soothe your smile when recovering from oral surgery.

Fish and Eggs

To get protein while you’re recovering, choose softer foods such as fish or scrambled eggs. Fish such as tuna and salmon are full of healthy fats and protein. Hold off on eating tougher meats such as beef or chicken during this time of healing. If you follow a mostly plant-based diet, you can also eat mashed beans for protein, such as hummus or refried beans [2].

Soft Fruits

Craving something fresh? You have options even while you’re recovering from wisdom tooth removal. Try eating avocado, ripe pears, or applesauce for those first few days. You can also eat softer berries such as raspberries or blueberries, or put fruit in smoothies or oatmeal for a tasty and nourishing breakfast.

Foods to Avoid

It’s important to avoid foods that are hard, sticky, or crunchy while you’re recovering from oral surgery. Foods that have seeds, such as seedy breads, should be avoided, as the seeds can get stuck in your incisions. It’s also best to avoid foods that are very hot or spicy, as they can contribute to irritation following your procedure.

Take It Easy!

In addition to eating softer foods, take it easy when recovering from having your wisdom teeth removed. Stock up on healthy foods, rest for at least a couple days, and take it easy when getting back to your normal activities. Soon you’ll feel like your old self!

Sources:
1. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/wisdom-tooth-removal/recovery/
2. https://dental.washington.edu/wp-content/media/oral-
surgery/Afteryouroralsurgery.pdf