Eat To Heal: What to Eat (and Avoid) After a Tooth Extraction

Recovering from a tooth extraction or bone grafting procedure is a critical step toward restoring your oral health—and your diet plays a major role in that process. At Jay Platt, DDS Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center, we help patients heal comfortably and effectively by offering personalized post-operative instructions, including a detailed guide on what to eat and what to avoid in the days and weeks following your procedure.

Immediate Post-Operative Period (First 24–48 Hours)

During the first 24 to 48 hours, your mouth will be sensitive, and the surgical site is especially vulnerable to disruption. The key during this time is to minimize chewing, stay hydrated, and avoid any food that could irritate or infect the area.

Stick with cool or lukewarm soft foods, such as:

• Smoothies (no seeds): Blend fruits with milk, almond milk, or yogurt for a nutrient-rich option. Avoid using straws, as suction can dislodge the blood clot and lead to dry socket.
• Broths and blended soups: Choose mild, lukewarm options that are easy to swallow and require no chewing.
• Applesauce: A vitamin-rich and gentle option that doesn’t require chewing.
• Mashed potatoes or pureed vegetables: Smooth and filling, they offer a comforting and soft texture.
• Pudding or gelatin: These can satisfy sweet cravings without irritating the surgical area.

Transitional Diet (Days 3–7)

As swelling begins to come down and your discomfort decreases, you can gradually introduce slightly more substantial, or “normal,” foods. Continue to avoid chewing near the surgical site and make sure foods are soft, lukewarm, and easy to break down.

Good options include:

• Scrambled eggs: Scrambled eggs are high in protein to aid in recovery.  Plus, they are easy to eat and delicious!
• Oatmeal or cream of wheat: Warm, soft cereals are filling and gentle on healing tissues, providing essential nourishment without interfering with the healing process.
• Soft pasta or noodles: Cooked until very tender, served with mild sauces (avoid anything spicy or acidic).
• Avocado: Mashed or sliced, it’s full of healthy fats that support healing.
• Cottage cheese or soft tofu: Packed with protein and easy on the jaw.

Foods to Avoid

To protect your healing tissues and reduce the risk of complications like dry socket or infection, avoid the following foods and habits:

• Crunchy or hard foods: Chips, nuts, popcorn, granola, and raw vegetables can easily get lodged in the surgical area or cause injury.
• Spicy or acidic foods: These may irritate sensitive tissues and slow healing.
• Sticky foods: Items like caramel or chewing gum can dislodge sutures or pull at healing gums.
• Hot foods and beverages: Excessive heat can increase bleeding and discomfort.
• Alcohol and carbonated drinks: These can interfere with healing and should be avoided for at least a week.
• Using straws or spitting forcefully: Both actions create suction that can dislodge the protective clot over the surgical site and lead to dry socket—a painful condition that delays healing.

-When in doubt, leave it out!-

Bonus Tip: Hydration Is Healing

Water is essential for your body’s daily processes, and that includes healing!  Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, but remember to sip gently and never through a straw. Hydration promotes tissue regeneration and supports your immune system during the recovery phase, but, as previously mentioned, avoiding a dry socket should be of utmost importance!

At Jay Platt, DDS Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center, we’re committed to helping you heal safely, comfortably, and confidently. Whether you’re recovering from a routine extraction or a more complex bone grafting procedure, following the right dietary guidance can make a significant difference in your recovery outcome.

If you have any questions about your post-operative care or need help planning your recovery diet, don’t hesitate to call our Schererville office. Your health is our top priority—and we’re here to support you every step of the way.