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In this dentist-approved guide, we discuss why proper diet matters after wisdom tooth removal and what to eat afterwards. We’ll explore foods to eat and avoid during recovery, warning signs to watch for, and dentist-approved tips.
Just Had Your Wisdom Teeth Out? Let’s Talk Food
The most common question people ask after tooth extraction in Canberra is often regarding food. Between work, university, school runs, and family commitments, most people want a smooth recovery without second-guessing every meal. However, eating healthy after a wisdom tooth removal is not as difficult as it sounds, especially if you know what to eat and what to avoid. In this guide, we explore why diet matters during recovery from wisdom tooth extraction and what foods dentists recommend according to Australian eating habits.
Why Diet Matters After Wisdom Teeth Removal
You’d think that wisdom tooth removal means you should be able to eat whatever you wish, right? But that’s not how things work. Wisdom tooth extraction is a complex procedure, and the teeth need time to heal afterwards. Eating very hot or hard foods or chewing too hard can disturb the extraction site or dislodge the blood clot that protects the area, increasing the risk of infection or dry socket. Soft, liquid, and nourishing food helps protect the site of extraction and gives your body the energy and nourishment needed to repair the tissues. It can help reduce swelling, bring comfort, and decrease recovery time.
The First 24 Hours: What to Eat Right After Surgery
The first day after the surgery, you’ll have swelling and numbness. Dentists recommend avoiding solid food for the first 24 hours after the surgery, with absolutely no food intake in the first 2 hours. Sticking to soft, cool, or lukewarm liquid foods that require no effort to eat can keep you comfortable and hydrated with zero chewing. Here’s what you should prefer:
- Smooth yoghurt (plain or vanilla)
- Custard
- Jelly
- Ice cream or gelato without nuts, biscuit pieces, or chunks
- Fully blended soups, served cool or just warm
For Drinks stick to:
- Water
- Chilled or room-temperature herbal teas
Dentist Tips:
- Eat slowly and use small spoonfuls.
- Avoid hot food and drinks on day one.
- Do not use straws, as suction can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
Days 2–3: Soft Foods That Keep You Full
By the second or third day, the swelling will start to settle down. With less inflammation and pain, your appetite is also bound to improve. But your teeth still need care and attention. It’s better to stay safe by sticking to soft foods that keep you full without affecting your teeth or gum health. Here are some safe and filling food options:
- Mashed potato or sweet potato
- Scrambled eggs
- Porridge or oats (lukewarm)
- Creamy pumpkin, potato, or carrot soup
- Cottage cheese
- Mashed avocado
- Pumpkin soup, soft ricotta with honey, and plain mashed vegetables also work well during this stage.
Dentist Tips:
- Avoid foods that leave crumbs or grains behind.
- If your dentist has advised gentle rinsing, then don’t swish vigorously. Follow the dentist’s instructions carefully to speed up your recovery.
Days 4–7: Transitioning Back to Normal Foods
Usually, by the fourth day, your tooth has already started healing. However, that does not mean you stop taking care of your teeth. Instead of jumping to hard foods immediately, you can gradually begin eating the following:
- Soft pasta
- Well-cooked rice
- Flaked fish, such as barramundi
- Minced meats
- Soft sandwiches with crusts removed
However, keep an eye on:
- Any discomfort while chewing
- Sensitivity around the extraction site
If pain increases, return to softer foods for another day or two. Once you start feeling better, check if you can eat the above-mentioned food without pain again before going for anything hard or crunchy.
Foods and Habits to Avoid During Recovery
Now that you know what to eat, you should also remember foods to stay away from during recovery. Here’s what you should avoid until your dentist says it’s safe:
- Hard or crunchy foods like nuts, popcorn, and chips
- Toast and crusty bread
- Sticky foods such as lollies or Vegemite
- Spicy foods
- Hot drinks in the early days
- Alcohol and smoking
The area around the extraction site is quite sensitive, and such hard foods can irritate it. When this area is frequently irritated or abraded, it can increase inflammation, interfere with smooth healing, and also increase the risk of dry socket.
Signs to Watch Out For During Recovery
Sometimes, you may encounter issues with your teeth despite eating properly and taking thorough care. Don’t panic, just watch out for the following signs and contact your family dental clinic if you notice any of them:
- Increasing pain after day three
- A persistent bad taste or smell
- Swelling that worsens instead of improving
- Fever or signs of infection
Don’t hesitate to reach out to a local dentist if you feel something’s off. Early care can prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems.
Eat Smart, Heal Faster
Recovering from wisdom tooth removal doesn’t have to be uncomfortable or complicated. All you have to do to heal faster is to take proper care of your tooth and eat properly. Knowing what foods to eat at which stage of recovery can help protect your mouth, reduce pain and swelling, and boost healing. However, every person heals differently. So, it’s better to follow your dentist’s advice and take thorough care. If something doesn’t feel right or if you’re unsure about what you can eat next, reach out to your local dentist in Canberra.
Looking for wisdom teeth removal in Canberra? Visit the Dentist at Dickson for safe, comfortable, and professional wisdom tooth extraction service designed to remove infection and reduce pain with advanced technology.
