If you have just had teeth extracted you are probably wondering which foods you can eat and which ones you will have to avoid. In this blog, our Winnipeg dentists share the food you can and can't eat after having teeth removed.
If you have teeth that are damaged or are a threat to the health of your other teeth, your dentist might suggest having them removed. Your dentist will also recommend eating a healthy, soft food diet until you are fully healed.
While your schedule might be different depending on the recommendations your dentist makes as well as other factors, we have developed a general timeline of what you should be able to eat during different stages of your recovery – we've also provided some important facts about when you will be able to enjoy all of your favourite foods again.
Why can I only eat soft, healthy foods after having teeth removed?
While tooth extractions are common procedures, it's critical to follow your dentist's instructions, maintain a healthy diet of soft foods, and manage self-care to have a successful and smooth recovery process.
You’ll want to do this to avoid complications or infections, which can result from bacteria or food particles becoming trapped in the extraction area.
What am I able to eat after a tooth extraction?
For 3 to 5 days
Typically, you will want to make sure that you eat lots of soft, mushy foods, and drink lots of liquids for 3 to 5 days. This could include:
- Yogurt
- Pudding
- Apple sauce
- Potatoes (mashed, sweet, or regular)
- Smoothies
- Blended soups (easy to eat, hydrating, and rich in nutrients)
- Broths (filled with minerals and essential vitamins to help you recover)
- Pureed or mashed vegetables such as squash or carrots
- Jell-O
- Seedless, pureed fruit
- Regular ice cream, or banana ice cream
As you start healing, gradually reintroduce more regular, semi-soft foods such as:
- Macaroni and cheese
- toast
- Instant oatmeal
- Scrambled eggs
Let any hot foods cool before eating them, and keep the area clean based on your dentist’s recommendations. Also, remember to take your medications as instructed.
Which foods should I avoid?
For 1 Week or More
For the first several days, the extraction site will be vulnerable to infection. You will want to avoid foods that could inflame the area or cause complications, such as:
- Alcohol
- Acidic or spicy foods (pepper, citrus juice)
- Seeds
- Grains (quinoa, rice)
- Crunchy, tough, or crumbly foods (hamburgers, jerky, popcorn, pizza, etc.)
For 2 to 4 Weeks
You might love snacking on these foods but, you should avoid eating them until you have made a full recovery because they could get stuck in the wound and disrupt healing.
- Popcorn
- Nuts
- Chips
How long until I can start eating normal foods after a tooth extraction?
Often, patients find that they can start eating normal foods again about a week after having their teeth removed. Eating a diet full of delicious, healthy, and soft foods in the days and weeks following a tooth extraction is essential for having a quick recovery.
As long as you consume the right foods – and avoid foods that may delay or hamper your recovery – you’ll feel more comfortable and help reduce your risk of infection.