If you have damaged teeth that are threatening the health of your other healthy teeth, your dentist may recommend having them extracted. You will be advised to eat a healthful diet featuring soft foods while you heal.
Though your schedule may vary based on your dentist's recommendations and other factors, we've compiled a general timeline of what should be safe to eat at different stages of recovery, as well as important information about when you'll be able to enjoy all your favourite foods once more.
Why eat soft, healthy foods after teeth are extracted?
While having a tooth extracted is a common procedure, it is essential to maintain a healthy diet of soft foods, adhere to your dentist's instructions, and manage your own care to ensure a speedy recovery.
You’ll want to do this to avoid complications or infections, which can result from bacteria or food particles becoming trapped in the extraction area.
What can I eat after a tooth extraction?
For 3 to 5 days
Generally, you’ll want to ensure you eat lots of soft, mushy food and ensure you get plenty of liquids for 3 to 5 days. This can include:
- Smoothies
- Apple sauce
- Yogurt
- Blended soups (easy to eat, hydrating and rich in nutrients)
- Pudding
- Broths (filled with minerals and essential vitamins to help you recover)
- Pureed or mashed vegetables such as squash or carrots
- Jell-O
- Regular ice cream or banana ice cream
- Seedless, pureed fruit
- Potatoes (regular, mashed or sweet)
As you start to heal, gradually integrate more regular, semi-soft foods such as:
- Instant oatmeal
- Toast
- Scrambled eggs
- Macaroni and cheese
Allow any hot food to cool before eating, and keep the area clean according to your dentist’s recommendations. Also, remember to take your medications as prescribed.
Which foods should I avoid?
For 1 Week or More
For those first few days, the extraction site will be vulnerable to infection. You’ll want to avoid foods that may inflame the area or lead to complications, such as:
- Grains (quinoa, rice)
- Alcohol
- Seeds
- Crunchy, tough or crumbly foods (hamburgers, jerky, popcorn, pizza, etc.)
- Spicy or acidic foods (peppers, citrus juice)
For 2 to 4 Weeks
You may love these snack foods. However, you should avoid eating them until you’re fully recovered, as they may stick in the wound and disrupt healing.
- Popcorn
- Nuts
- Chips
When can I start eating normal food after a tooth extraction?
Many patients report that they are able to eat normally again within a week of having their teeth extracted. In the days and weeks following a tooth extraction, it is essential that you consume a diet rich in delicious, nutritious, and soft foods.
As long as you consume the right foods – and avoid foods that may delay or hamper your recovery – you’ll feel more comfortable and help reduce your risk of infection.