Oral surgery is a common medical procedure, whether you’re having wisdom teeth extracted, a root canal, or dental implants installed. One of the most important components of your recovery after dental and maxillofacial surgery is your nutrition. It’s essential to follow your dentist or oral surgeon’s dietary instructions, especially when it comes to soft foods, to promote a smooth and comfortable healing process.

In this blog post, we’ll explore how long you should be on a soft food diet following oral surgery and offer some ideas for a quick and painless recovery.

Why Soft Foods After Oral Surgery?

You can feel pain, swelling, and discomfort after oral surgery since your mouth is likely to be sensitive. Eating foods that are firm or crunchy might irritate the surgical site and increase the risk of complications like bleeding, infection, or damage to the surgical area. Soft foods are gentle on your mouth, so they’re the best option in the early stages of rehabilitation.

How Long Do You Have to Stick to Soft Foods?

Following oral surgery, the duration of the soft food diet can vary based on the individual procedure, your body’s natural healing process, and the recommendations of your surgeon. However, as a general guideline:

First 24-48 Hours

As a result of the anesthesia, your mouth can be numb just after surgery; therefore, you should stay away from hot, spicy, and crunchy meals. Eat only soft meals like pudding, yogurt, and applesauce, and adhere to clear liquids.

Days 2-7

During the first week, you should primarily consume soft foods. Your dentist in Whyte Ave will provide guidance on when it’s safe to transition to a more regular diet. This period may be extended for more complex surgeries.

Weeks 2-6

As your mouth recovers, gradually introduce semi-soft and then solid foods in the following weeks. Listen to your body and don’t rush through this procedure.

Soft Food Options for a Healthy Recovery

Soups
Smoothies
Mashed vegetables
Applesauce
Pudding and yogurt
Eggs
Oatmeal
Pasta
Fish
Ice cream and sorbet

Tips for a Comfortable Recovery

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and aid in the healing process.
Avoid Straws: Straws can create suction, which might disrupt the healing process. Drink from a cup or glass.
Maintain Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth gently and rinse your mouth with warm salt water as your dentist recommends.
Listen to Your Body: Keep a record of how your body reacts to various foods. Avoid doing anything that causes you discomfort until you are completely healed.
Plan Balanced Meals: While focusing on soft foods, try to maintain a balanced diet by incorporating a variety of nutrients.

Recovery from oral surgery might be difficult, but it is essential to be patient and focus on your healing process. You’ll give your mouth the best chance of recovering easily and without issues if you stick to a soft food diet for the time frame given and follow your surgeon’s instructions. Remember that your health is the most important thing, and a little additional time spent on soft meals will be well worth it in the end.

Visit Lumos Dental for More Dental Care Tips!

Visit Lumos Dental for expert dental care advice and complete oral health counseling. Our dentist near you is committed to providing you with personalized guidance that is tailored to your specific requirements. Our team is available to help if you need advice on post-surgery care, proper brushing techniques, or overall oral hygiene.

Trust us to lead the way to a brighter, healthier smile.

How Long Do You Have To Eat Soft Foods After Oral Surgery?