October 8, 2024

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Bryce Lamer

Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure, but it’s still surgery. To ensure a smooth recovery, paying close attention to your diet both before and after the procedure is crucial. The right foods can minimize discomfort, promote healing, and help you get back on your feet faster.

Before Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery

The goal before surgery is to nourish your body and prepare it for the healing process. Here are some recommended foods:

  • Soft, easily digestible foods: Think smoothies, mashed potatoes, yogurt, and applesauce. These foods are gentle on your stomach and won’t require much chewing.
  • Protein-rich foods: Protein is essential for tissue repair and healing. Include foods like fish, chicken, tofu, beans, and lentils in your meals.
  • Hydrating foods and drinks: Staying hydrated is important before any surgery. Water is the best choice, but you can also include clear broths, herbal teas, and diluted fruit juices.

Foods to avoid before surgery:

  • Hard, crunchy, or chewy foods: These can irritate your gums and make it difficult to eat after surgery. Avoid foods like nuts, seeds, popcorn, raw vegetables, and tough meats.
  • Spicy or acidic foods: These can cause discomfort and inflammation, so it’s best to avoid them before surgery.
  • Alcohol and caffeine: These can interfere with anesthesia and medications, so it’s recommended to avoid them for at least 24 hours before surgery.

After Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery

Immediately after wisdom teeth removal surgery, your diet will be limited to liquids and very soft foods. As you heal, you can gradually introduce more solid foods.

  • First 24 hours: Stick to clear liquids like water, clear broths, and diluted fruit juices. You can also have smoothies, applesauce, and yogurt. Avoid using a straw, as the sucking motion can dislodge blood clots and delay healing.
  • Days 2-3: You can start introducing soft, mashed foods like mashed potatoes, oatmeal, and soft-cooked vegetables.
  • Days 4-7: As your mouth continues to heal, you can gradually introduce more solid foods, but continue to avoid anything hard, crunchy, or chewy.

Foods to avoid after surgery:

  • Hard, crunchy, or chewy foods: These can irritate the surgical site and delay healing. Avoid foods like nuts, seeds, popcorn, raw vegetables, and tough meats.
  • Spicy or acidic foods: These can cause discomfort and inflammation.
  • Alcohol and caffeine: These can interfere with medications and delay healing.
  • Hot foods and drinks: These can increase blood flow to the surgical site and cause bleeding. Stick to lukewarm or cold foods and drinks for the first few days.

Tips for a Smooth Wisdom Teeth Removal Recovery

  • Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids is essential for healing.
  • Eat small, frequent meals: This will help you get the nutrients you need without putting too much strain on your jaw.
  • Take your medications as directed: This will help manage pain and reduce the risk of complications.
  • Rest: Getting enough rest is crucial for healing.
  • Keep your mouth clean: Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day to keep the surgical site clean and prevent infection.

Remember, everyone heals at a different pace. Listen to your body and follow your oral surgeon’s instructions. Don’t hesitate to contact your oral surgeon with concerns about your diet or recovery. Following these dietary guidelines can help ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery from wisdom teeth removal surgery at OKC-OMS.