After a tooth extraction, it’s important to give your mouth time to heal before diving back into your regular diet. For the first few hours, it’s best to avoid eating altogether to allow the blood clot to form properly. Once the numbness wears off, you can start with soft foods and liquids to avoid putting pressure on the extraction site.
For the first 24 hours, stick to easy-to-eat options like:
- Applesauce
- Yogurt
- Mashed potatoes
- Smoothies
- Soup (not too hot!)
Steer clear of straws. The suction can disturb the blood clot, increasing the risk of dry socket, a painful condition that can delay healing.
By day two or three, you can introduce slightly firmer foods like scrambled eggs, pasta, or soft bread, but it’s still best to chew on the opposite side of your mouth. Avoid crunchy, sticky, or spicy foods until your dentist gives the all-clear.
Most people can return to a normal diet within a week, depending on how well they heal. Just remember: listen to your body, and if something feels uncomfortable, stick to softer options a little longer. If you experience prolonged pain or swelling, check in with your dentist to make sure everything is healing properly.
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