What NOT to Eat After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Diagram of a wisdom tooth

By the time most people reach adulthood, it can seem like the body doesn’t have any more growing to do. That’s why it can be pretty surprising when a wisdom tooth starts causing you grief.

Wisdom teeth sprout slowly, but the discomfort they cause can seem to show up all at once. That can make it hard to feel prepared for the aftercare that’s needed. Even figuring out what and what not to eat can be a little disorienting.

This guide is here to help. Here’s a rundown of what you need to watch out for in the days after your wisdom tooth removal, and what foods you should avoid.

Why Should I Be Careful?

The goal of aftercare in the days after your wisdom tooth surgery is to ensure that the wound heals properly. One of the most important things is to ensure that the bleeding stops, that a clot forms, and that it’s maintained until the gum tissue itself can heal completely. That clot is a little fragile, so you have to be careful what you eat.

What Foods Should I Avoid?

If you’re feeling a little bit hungry directly after your surgery, you’ll have to eat while your mouth is still numb. You’ll have to be careful with the food you choose and how you eat it. Try not to eat anything with the potential to burn your mouth, as you won’t be able to feel it if it does. You should also avoid anything too chewy, as it’s possible that you could bite into your cheeks or tongue.

Once the numbness wears off, you need to protect the clot that’s forming in the surgical area. If you create too much suction in your mouth, the clot will come loose, causing an uncomfortable condition known as “dry socket.” Smoking, vaping, and sipping through a straw can all lead to this condition. Excessively chewy foods can also cause these problems, so they should be avoided as well.

By using a little bit of caution immediately after the surgery, you’ll be able to heal much faster than you’d think. Take it easy, and you’ll be back to normal in no time.

About the Author

Dr. Roman Kotlarek loves being a dentist. Every day, he has the privilege of being able to come to work and improve the lives of his patients. He does that by providing them with immaculate dental care while putting them at ease every step of the way.

Dr. Kotlarek is a graduate of The University of Texas Health and Science Center in San Antonio. He’s also earned the distinction of Fellow from the Academy of General Dentistry, a distinction earned by less than 7% of dentists in the U.S.

If you have any questions about wisdom teeth removal, he can be reached at his website or by phone at (281) 920-4200.