What to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal: A Complete Guide

Introduction

Getting your wisdom teeth removed is a common dental procedure, but the recovery process can leave you wondering, “What can I eat after wisdom teeth removal?”

Eating the wrong foods can slow healing, cause pain, or even lead to complications like dry socket. That’s why knowing what to eat (and what to avoid) is important for a smooth and comfortable recovery.

In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ The best foods to eat after wisdom teeth removal.
✔ Foods to avoid to prevent irritation or complications.
✔ Tips to speed up healing and reduce discomfort.

Let’s make your recovery easier with the right food choices!

Best Foods to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal

Right after your surgery, your mouth will be tender, swollen, and sensitive. Choosing soft, easy-to-eat foods helps prevent irritation while keeping you nourished.

1. Smooth, Soft Foods for the First 24-48 Hours

For the first two days, stick to foods that require little to no chewing:

✔ Applesauce – Easy to eat and gentle on your gums.
✔ Yogurt – Smooth and full of probiotics to support healing.
✔ Mashed Potatoes – Warm, soft, and comforting.
✔ Broth-Based Soups – Nutrient-rich but not too hot.
✔ Smoothies – A great way to get nutrients without chewing (just avoid using a straw).

2. Soft Foods to Eat After the First Few Days

As swelling goes down, you can introduce slightly thicker foods:

✔ Scrambled eggs – Soft, protein-packed, and easy to chew.
✔ Oatmeal – A warm, soft meal that’s easy on the mouth.
✔ Soft pasta or noodles – Mild and easy to eat when well-cooked.
✔ Avocados – Creamy and packed with healthy fats.
✔ Cottage cheese – Soft, nutritious, and easy to swallow.

Stick to lukewarm or cool foods—nothing too hot or spicy, as this can irritate the healing area.

Foods to Avoid After Wisdom Teeth Removal

Certain foods can slow healing, cause irritation, or even lead to complications like dry socket. Avoid these to protect your recovery:

1. Crunchy & Hard Foods

• Chips, popcorn, nuts, or anything that could get stuck in the surgical site.
• Hard foods like raw veggies, crackers, or granola that require too much chewing.

2. Sticky or Chewy Foods

• Sticky candies, gum, and caramel can pull on the stitches or get stuck in healing areas.

3. Spicy or Acidic Foods

• Hot sauces, citrus fruits, and vinegar-based foods can cause pain and irritation.

4. Hot Beverages or Alcohol

• Avoid coffee, tea, or alcohol, as these can delay healing and cause discomfort.

5. Using a Straw (Even for Soft Foods & Drinks!)

• Sucking through a straw can dislodge the blood clot, leading to dry socket, which is painful and slows healing.

Tips to Speed Up Healing After Wisdom Teeth Removal

✔ Drink plenty of water – Stay hydrated but avoid straws.
✔ Rest as much as possible – Your body heals faster when you get enough sleep.
✔ Use cold compresses – Helps reduce swelling in the first 24 hours.
✔ Avoid smoking and alcohol – These can increase the risk of infection and slow healing.
✔ Follow your dentist’s instructions – Every recovery is different, so stick to your care plan.

When to Call Your Dentist

Most people recover from wisdom teeth removal in 7-10 days, but if you notice any of these symptoms, call your dentist right away:

⚠ Severe pain that doesn’t improve after a few days.
⚠ Excessive bleeding that doesn’t stop.
⚠ Foul taste or bad breath (signs of infection).
⚠ Swelling that gets worse instead of better.

At BK Dental, we provide expert wisdom teeth extractions in Richmond Hill and Scarborough and guide you through a smooth recovery process. If you have any concerns, we’re here to help!

Conclusion

Eating the right foods after wisdom teeth removal makes a big difference in how fast and smoothly you recover. Stick to soft, gentle foods, avoid hard or spicy foods, and give your mouth the care it needs.

If you have questions about recovery or need a wisdom tooth consultation, contact BK Dental today! Our team is here to make sure your experience is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.