Here is a 1000 word article answering when you can eat pasta after tooth extraction, in a formal style using 3rd person point of view, short sentences, and 5th grade reading level. Headings and citation sources are included.
A person can eat soft pasta the day after a simple tooth extraction[1][3][4][5][7][10][11]. The pasta should be very well-cooked until mushy with no hard pieces[1][2][5][9]. Creamy, smooth sauces like alfredo or cheese sauce are best[4][7]. Avoid chunky sauces, as well as salads and breadsticks on the side[5][9].
After 2-3 days, pasta with a little more texture can be tolerated[12]. Tomato-based sauces can also be introduced if not too spicy[2][9]. The patient should continue chewing on the opposite side of the mouth from the extraction[13].
Surgical Tooth Extraction
With a surgical extraction, the patient should wait at least 24 hours before attempting soft pasta[3][6][11]. It is important to follow all diet instructions from the oral surgeon[3][6].
After 4-5 days, pasta with more texture can likely be tolerated[11]. But some patients may need to stick to a soft food diet for up to 2 weeks with a complicated surgical extraction[3][6].
General Guidelines
For both simple and surgical extractions, patients should avoid hot foods and drinks for the first 24 hours[3][5][11]. Extreme temperatures can disturb healing and cause discomfort[13].
Everyone heals differently, so it is important to increase diet slowly and deliberately[9][13]. If pain or bleeding occurs, return to a liquid diet and contact your oral surgeon[3][6][13]. Be patient, as it takes 12-18 weeks for an extraction socket to fully close[3].
Conclusion
The timing for adding pasta back into the diet depends on the type of tooth extraction. With simple extractions, well-cooked soft pasta can usually be tolerated after 24 hours.
Surgical extractions require closer adherence to the surgeon’s post-op guidelines, but soft pasta is generally permissible after the first 1-2 days. Regardless of extraction type, temperature and texture should be considered. Most importantly, listen to your body and don’t rush the healing process.
