There is no way around it, even with a dentist doing as much as they can to make it easy on you, getting your wisdom teeth pulled is not going to be fun. It’s one of those things in life that just must be done. But you will be ok, you will pull through! To help you during the healing process, eat and drink foods that are both comforting and nutritious. “Cold foods are soothing and can reduce swelling, whereas nuts, seeds, and hot spices can aggravate tender areas.” – Dr. John McIntosh (Erbsville Dental’s Oral Surgeon). During the early stages of healing avoid using straws, as suction can irritate fresh wounds and cause discomfort. What are some good choices for foods to eat while you’re recovering? (After Wisdom Tooth Removal)
Comforting and Nutritious Foods
Smoothies are an excellent option after Wisdom tooth removal. They are both cold and packed with vitamins. Frozen bags of fruit like blue berries, bananas, and raspberries are available at most grocery stores or you can prepare and freeze your own. Mixed with cold milk and ice your smoothie is off to a great start. Be creative but avoid adding things full of sugar like ice cream or syrups. See https://downshiftology.com/best-smoothie-recipes/ for ideas
Yogurt is full of good things your body needs to heal. In just 100 grams of it you get 3.5 g of protein, 5 g of Carbohydrates, and 3 g of “good” fats. Yogurt is also very good for your digestive system and isn’t high in calories (100 g (plain yogurt) = 60 cal). It’s also a great thing to add to your smoothie! Load up on a variety of yogurt before your third molars are removed. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/yogurt#nutrition
Apple Sauce is both delicious and easy to make. Here’s what to do… In a saucepan, combine apples, water, sugar, and cinnamon. Cover, and cook over medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes, or until apples are soft. Allow to cool, then mash with a fork or potato masher. That’s it, fairly easy, eh? Your home-made apple sauce is full of nutrition and only 120 calories per serving. Keep it refrigerated for a cool soothing treat later. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/51301/sarahs-applesauce/
Creamy Mashed Potatoes are another simple yet nutritious food. There are only a few ingredients but one spoonful can bring you great comfort. Often, such foods remind us of good times with friends and family. But their immediate benefits are flavor and the satisfaction of feeling full without needing to chew much with a sour mouth. For a great mashed potato recipe see https://natashaskitchen.com/creamy-mashed-potatoes-recipe/
Soup is nutritious, delicious and comforting with endless possibilities. You can also start eating more solid foods and transition to them by dipping them into your soup. For example, a grilled cheese sandwich can be dipped in a tomato soup to make it a little softer and easier to chew. Cut the crust of and cut the grilled cheese into small squares and serve them in the soup for slightly soggy grill cheese croutons? Check out this recipe at https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/easy-tomato-soup-grilled-cheese-croutons-recipe-2109038
Ask Questions About Your Wisdom Teeth
These were just a few suggestions for some foods that are easy on your mouth while healing from wisdom tooth removal. Good things often result from difficult situations. If you can, take some time off work to heal from your dental surgery, experiment with foods that can help you heal, and make the best of it. You can expect to feel better soon. For other great tips on feeling better post op see Wisdom Teeth Aftercare published by Erbsville Dental.
If you have any questions about your Wisdom Teeth talk to Dr. John McIntosh at Erbsville Dental in Waterloo.
This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Accordingly, always seek the advice of your Dentist or other healthcare providers regarding a dental condition or treatment.
