After getting a tooth pulled, the last thing you want is more pain and discomfort from eating the wrong tucker. Dr Anish, a dentist in Newcastle, shares his expert advice on the best diet for a smooth recovery.
“The days straight after a tooth extraction are crucial for proper healing,” says Dr Anish. “Sticking to soft, easy-to-eat foods and avoiding anything that could dislodge the blood clot is key to preventing complications.”
Best Foods to Eat After Teeth Removal (0 – 2 Days)
“As most people will be feeling really tender after the surgery, it’s best to stick to really soft foods that don’t need any chewing,” advises Dr Anish. His recommendations for the first 0-2 days include:
- Yoghurt (frozen or normal – no fruit bits or nuts)
- Jelly
- Ice cream, sorbet, or milkshakes
- Lukewarm soups
- Pudding
- Eggs
- Soggy cereal or oatmeal
- Well-cooked pasta
Note: Straight after surgery, no hot foods should be eaten as your face will still be numb, and you may burn yourself. Wait at least an hour before trying warm foods.
Food to Eat After Teeth Extraction (2 – 5 Days)
“You should be able to start having hot food again by the second day, as the blood clots will be more stable and less likely to start bleeding again,” says Dr Anish.
For this stage, he recommends foods that need minimal chewing, such as:
- Bread
- Yoghurt (including fruit bits)
- Pasta
- Noodles
- Soft veggies, including hot mashed potatoes
- Tofu
- Minced beef or chicken
- Mince dishes like lasagne
- Eggs
- Cheese
- Soups
Dr Anish’s Favourite Recovery Smoothie
“One of my go-to recommendations for patients recovering from a tooth extraction is a chocolate banana oat smoothie,” says Dr Anish. “It’s nutritious, filling, and easy on the mouth.”
Dr Anish’s Chocolate Banana Oat Smoothie Recipe:
- 1 cup non-dairy milk
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons almond butter (or other smooth nut/seed butter)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1 large ripe banana, preferably frozen
- Pinch of sea salt
- Pinch of ground cinnamon
Final Recovery Period (> 5 Days)
“At this point, you’ll likely be starting to feel ready to try out your mouth on some different foods,” says Dr Anish. “Depending on how easily your teeth came out will determine how easy eating harder foods will go. Remember – this is only a guide, and if you don’t feel comfortable eating certain foods, just stick to the previous stage for longer.”
During this final stage, Dr Anish suggests trying foods that need minimal to moderate chewing, but cautions against anything too hard, chewy, or hot, as well as seeds, nuts, rice, and popcorn, which could get stuck in the healing socket.
“For most people, the biggest worry is keeping bits of food out of the holes in your gums,” he notes.
By following Dr Anish’s expert guidance, you’ll be on your way to a smooth, comfortable recovery after your tooth extraction. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at 7 Pearls Dental for personalised advice.