What to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Extraction

After getting wisdom teeth extracted, you probably won't feel like eating much of anything. But it's important to help your body heal by providing it with nutrients, so long as you take precautions to avoid damaging the work your oral surgeon has done.

The Importance of Eating

• Fight nausea by eating. This helps offset the strong pain medication you're taking. Ensure you eat a little something several times a day, even if you don't feel like it.

After Surgery

• For the first day or two after surgery, stick to liquids and very soft foods. However, do not use a straw; the suction can cause dry sockets in your mouth. Try applesauce, warm broth, pudding, yogurt, mashed potatoes or nutritional shakes--nothing too hot or cold. As you start to feel better, try foods that require minimal chewing, such as eggs, hummus, noodle soup or instant oatmeal. Soft tacos may be a good next step.

Recovery

• Tough or crunchy foods should be avoided until you feel completely recovered from the surgery. Ask your oral surgeon for more specific advice. You should be back to normal within about two weeks.

Liquids

• Make sure you get enough water. In addition to keeping you hydrated, it helps clean out your mouth and prevent food particles from getting into your stitches. If you're sensitive to cold liquids, try drinking water at room temperature. Alcohol should be avoided if you are taking narcotics.