Typically, you will be able to eat a few hours after wisdom teeth removal, but it’s recommended to only consume foods in liquid form. Soft foods, such as mashed potatoes and avocadoes, can be consumed about 24 hours after removal. You’ll be able to return to your regular diet within a few weeks.
How Long Do You Have To Wait To Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Healing after wisdom teeth have been removed can take as long as two weeks. Paying close attention to your nutrition during this time frame will allow your body to heal as quickly as possible.
Your mouth needs good nutrition and time in order to heal properly. If you are wondering how long to wait to eat and which foods are best during your recovery, follow our simple guide below.
24 Hours After Removal
The first 24 hours after surgery is often the most painful. At this time, you should only choose foods that require no chewing, such as broth, smoothies, and juice. Try to refrain from eating anything that is hot or cold. Lukewarm foods will work best.
2-3 Days After Removal
Your hunger pangs may return as your mouth starts to heal. Soft, nutrient-based foods that do not require much chewing are best to eat at this time. Some examples of appropriate foods to eat include:
- Soup
- Pudding
- Smoothies
- Applesauce
- Gelatin
Again, make sure none of these foods are consumed hot or cold.
One Week After Removal
About four days after surgery, it’s possible that you’ll be ready to chew a little. Try eating these foods:
- Fish
- Scrambled eggs
- Oatmeal
- Soft bananas
- Pureed seedless fruit
8-14 Days After Removal
Let any lingering pain you may feel be your guide at this point. If you feel well enough to try some semi-hard foods, go for it! If you experience any pain, however, give your mouth more time to heal.
What Foods To Avoid After Removing Wisdom Teeth
Of course, texture and hardness of the food is important, but there are a few other food attributes that matter after this surgery. For example, it’s recommended to avoid eating these foods:
- Crunchy foods: Chips and crackers can poke and scrape your healing tissues.
- Spicy foods: Heat can irritate healing tissues, while bland foods are much safer to consume.
- Crumbly snacks: Any foods that feature ingredients that break into pieces in your mouth can slide into the gap your wisdom teeth left behind.
Jonny Fisher, DDS In Pullman, Wash & Lewiston, ID
Our experienced team is here to serve you and your family with convenient, comprehensive & comfortable dental care. We offer the latest technology and dental care at our new facility. We specialize in helping patients with dental anxiety or other barriers to care; we take great pride in providing an amazing experience. For more, visit Jonny Fisher, DDS, at our Pullman, Washington, or Lewiston, Idaho, offices. Call (509) 332-2366 or (208) 746-2668 to schedule an appointment today.
