When Can I Eat Solid Food After Tooth Extraction? A Reddit Readers Guide to Eating After Dental Surgery
After tooth extraction, it is important to take care of the wound and allow it to heal properly. One of the most important things to consider is your diet.
Here are some things to keep in mind when it comes to eating solid food after tooth extraction:
Wait at least 24 hours before eating solid food: It is important to wait at least 24 hours after tooth extraction before eating solid food. This gives the wound time to heal and reduces the risk of complications. During this time, it is best to stick to soft foods and liquids.
Stick to soft foods for the first few days: Soft foods are easier to eat and less likely to irritate the wound. Some good options include:
Milk and yogurt
Cereals
Cheese
Smooth soups
Mashed potatoes
Beans
Fruit smoothies without using a straw
Protein shakes
Avoid hard, crunchy, and sticky foods: These types of foods can be difficult to chew and may get stuck in the wound, which can lead to infection. Some foods to avoid include:
Nuts and seeds
Chips and pretzels
Popcorn
Hard candy
Sticky candy, such as caramel or taffy
Be gentle when brushing your teeth: Brushing your teeth is important for maintaining good oral hygiene, but it is important to be gentle around the wound. Use a soft-bristled brush and avoid brushing directly on the extraction site.
Avoid smoking and using straws: Smoking and using straws can create suction in the mouth, which can dislodge the blood clot and delay the healing process. It is best to avoid these activities for at least 24 hours after tooth extraction.
If you experience any pain or discomfort, contact your dentist right away.
If you have recently undergone a tooth extraction, you may be wondering when you can start eating solid foods again.
Follow your dentist’s instructions: Your dentist will provide you with specific instructions on what to eat and how to care for your mouth after a tooth extraction. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper healing.
Start with soft foods: For the first 24 hours after the extraction, stick to soft foods and liquids. These can include milk, yogurt, cereals, cheese, smooth soups, mashed potatoes, beans, and fruit smoothies without using a straw. Protein shakes can also be a good option.
Avoid certain foods: For the first few days after the extraction, avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can irritate the extraction site. This includes chips, popcorn, nuts, candy, and gum.
Gradually reintroduce solid foods: After the first 24 hours, you can start to gradually reintroduce solid foods. Start with soft, easy-to-chew foods like scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, and soups. As you heal, you can begin to add more solid foods to your diet.
Be gentle when brushing: It is important to continue to brush your teeth and gums after a tooth extraction, but be gentle around the extraction site. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be careful not to brush too hard.
Don’t use a straw: Avoid using a straw for the first few days after the extraction, as the sucking motion can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
Here are some essential tips to keep in mind when it comes to eating after a tooth extraction:
Stick to soft foods: For at least 24 hours after tooth extraction, it is important to stick to soft foods and liquids. This will help prevent any damage or irritation to the extraction site. Soft foods include mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, smooth soups, and fruit smoothies without using a straw. NewMouth
Avoid hot and spicy foods: Hot and spicy foods can cause discomfort and irritation to the extraction site. It is best to avoid these types of foods until the extraction site has fully healed. Dentaly
Do not use a straw: Using a straw can cause suction that can dislodge the blood clot and delay the healing process. It is best to avoid using a straw for at least 24 hours after tooth extraction. Dentaly
Rinse your mouth with salt water: Rinsing your mouth with salt water can help keep the extraction site clean and prevent infection. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water and gently swish the solution in your mouth for 30 seconds. Spit the solution out and repeat as necessary. GoodRx
Avoid hard, crunchy, and acidic foods: Hard, crunchy, and acidic foods can cause discomfort and irritation to the extraction site. It is best to avoid these types of foods until the extraction site has fully healed. GoodRx
Be gentle when brushing: Brushing your teeth is important for maintaining good oral hygiene, but it is important to be gentle around the extraction site. Avoid brushing the extraction site for the first 24 hours after tooth extraction. After that, gently brush the area with a soft-bristled toothbrush. NewMouth
