Tooth extraction is a medical procedure in which a tooth is removed from the mouth. This is usually done because the tooth is damaged, decayed, or infected. After the tooth is removed, the area where it was will be sore and tender.
After you have had your teeth removed, it is important to eat the right foods to help with healing. This guide will cover some of the best foods to eat after extraction. We will also touch on how to transition to more difficult foods as you heal.
Day 1
The local anesthesia may take some time to wear off, but you may start feeling soreness within an hour or so after the procedure. The most discomfort is usually felt within the first and second days. Therefore, it is best to stick to a liquid diet during this time.
If you are looking for a way to get a vitamin boost in the middle of summer, a fruit or vegetable smoothie is a great option. Just be sure to drink it without a straw, as the suction can hurt your extraction site. If you’re feeling sore, you can also gently suck on a popsicle for some relief.
Try making or buying blended soups if you get a tooth pulled during colder weather. They are easy to eat and can be drunk straight from the bowl. Broths are also a good option if you want something lighter.
Days 2 and 3
On days two and three, you can start to eat soft foods instead of only drinking liquids. For breakfast, you can have oatmeal or soft eggs. You can have pasta soup with a side of puree or unflavored yogurt for lunch. For dinner, you can have a healthy potato dish that is mashed or made into soup.
Days 4 and 5
At this point, most of your discomfort should have faded. However, the site may still be sensitive to pressure. You will want to take it easy and avoid pressure on the site to prevent pain. You can start to introduce more normal foods, but there are still some that you should avoid.
You want to avoid anything that will be difficult to chew or may cause pain near your extraction site. Cut any meat or hard food into small pieces, and chew slowly and carefully. If anything hurts, spit it out and try again later.
Days 6 and 7
By day six or seven, the pain should start to go away and you should feel normal again. However, if you are still in pain or have pus in your mouth, you need to see a dentist as you may have an infection.
You can return to your regular eating habits but go slowly to avoid discomfort. If you are comfortable, you are probably fine.
Conclusion
The guide above covers the general basics of eating after tooth extractions and is not exhaustive. If you have specific questions about your individual tooth extractions or certain foods you enjoy, please talk to your dentist. They will be happy to provide more information and help you determine what is best for you.
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