Having your wisdom teeth extracted is definitely not on the list of fun things to do, but it’s something many men and women find themselves dealing with at one point or another in their lives. While pain and discomfort are a natural part of the wisdom teeth extraction process, knowing what to eat and what not to eat in the days following your procedure can make all the difference in the world. Keep reading this blog to learn some important diet tips to follow after your wisdom teeth extraction at Ivey Oral & Facial Surgery in Aurora.
To Eat, Or Not To Eat
Eating a healthy, nutrient-rich diet is an important part of recovery – for any surgery – and Dr. Ivey recommends that his wisdom teeth removal patients maintain a balanced diet full of protein, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats during their recovery from oral surgery. Before you sit down in Dr. Ivey’s dental chair, you should have your fridge stocked up with protein-rich liquids and soft, healthy foods. This type of diet will help ensure a quick recovery for Aurora residents.
Consume A Liquid Diet The First 24-48 Hours After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Even during the dreaded liquid diet portion of your recovery, maintaining balance is still possible. For example, to ensure you have adequate protein while you are healing the first 24-48 hours after your procedure, you can have a smoothie or protein shake. Be sure to eat thicker liquids with a spoon and strictly avoid using a straw. The sucking motion that occurs when using a straw can cause your much-needed blood clots to become dislodged, which will ultimately lead to dry socket – and believe us, you don’t want to deal with that.
In addition to smoothies, Dr. Ivey recommends some of the following liquids immediately following the removal of your wisdom teeth:
- Water
- Puréed soup
- Pure fruit or vegetable juices
- Bone broths
Next, Be Sure To Eat Soft Foods For Several Days After Your Procedure
Dr. Ivey of Ivey Oral Surgery will clear you to eat soft foods a couple of days following your wisdom teeth extraction. Since you will likely be on pain medication, he recommends eating smaller meals more frequently to avoid an upset stomach. Aurora patients should also avoid acidic or spicy foods during wisdom teeth removal recovery, as the acid and spice from some foods can cause a burning sensation at the surgical sites. Some good choices for soft foods during this portion of your recovery include:
- Greek yogurt
- Mashed potatoes
- Mashed bananas
- Scrambled eggs
- Boiled eggs
- Applesauce
- Banana ice cream
- Ripe avocado
- Hummus
- Cottage cheese
- Instant oatmeal
- Flaky fish
Call Dr. Ivey With Any More Questions
It is important to follow a strict diet after your wisdom teeth extraction. This is the best way to ensure you have a speedy and healthy recovery.
If you find that you still have questions about what you should or shouldn’t eat after your wisdom teeth extraction, don’t hesitate to call his Aurora office today at (303) 493-1933.
