In order to prepare for your san rafael wisdom teeth extraction and ensure a fast recovery process with less complications, it is important to understand what dietary shifts you should make before and after your procedure.
Many times, patients who are having their wisdom teeth extracted will receive dental sedation as part of the procedure. If you will be receiving dental sedation, do not drink or eat any food or beverages at least six hours prior to your surgery. This includes breath mints, chewing gum, and water. The only exception is prescription medication.
Following the removal of your wisdom teeth, it is important to follow aftercare instructions as closely as possible to avoid developing complications that can occur, such as a dry socket, pain, swelling, limited mouth opening, and/or excessive bleeding. One of the most important steps you can take to ensure a fast recovery and reduce your risk of complications is to stay hydrated and eat a modified diet for the first few days, and possibly longer depending on how many teeth are removed and your body’s natural healing process.
By sticking to liquid or soft foods immediately following extraction of your wisdom teeth, you will avoid irritating the extraction site, which in turn will reduce your overall pain and speed up the healing process. During this initial period, the following foods may be good options:
- Apple Sauce
- Blended Soups
- Broth
- Cottage Cheese
- Ice Cream
- Jell-O
- Mashed Potatoes
- Pudding
- Smoothies
- Yogurt
Foods to Avoid
As important as it is to eat the right foods following the removal of your wisdom teeth, it is equally important to avoid eating foods that put you at an increased risk of developing complications. Avoid the following types of foods during your initial recovery period.
- Crunchy and crumbly foods, such as cookies or chips, which can become lodged into the recovery site and inhibit the healing process.
- Seeds and grains can also become lodged into the recovery site and inhibit the healing process.
- Spicy food can cause irritation and pain.
- Chewy foods increase your risk of biting your tongue, lips, and cheek, lips while your mouth is still numb from the anesthesia.
- Alcohol can have a negative interaction with any prescribed medication and may irritate the wound.
In addition to avoiding these foods, it is also important to avoid using a straw and smoking, as engaging in either of these activities can ruin stitches or dislodge your blood clot. It is also important to limit or avoid caffeine as well as foods that are hot enough to burn the surgery site.
As you progress in the healing process you can begin to slowly return to your normal diet by reintroducing semi-soft foods, such as toast, oatmeal, and/or scrambled eggs before returning to your normal diet. If you follow these basic guidelines and do not rush the healing process, you should experience faster healing and be back to enjoying your normal diet in no time.
More on Wisdom Teeth : Wisdom Teeth Complications
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