ORAL SURGERY FOOD AFTER

Foods Recommended Following Oral Surgery

Patients who are well prepared for huntersville oral surgery typically have a more efficient and successful recovery. Nutrition and dietary needs for patients after oral surgery depends on many factors including your health before the procedure, the procedure being performed, oral function impact and recovery expectations. It is common for a doctor to require a liquid or soft foods diet for a few days following oral surgery. Patients are encouraged to select nutrient-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, dairy and protein. These types of foods provide vitamins and nutrients needed in order for your mouth to heal.

Soft food diets may be suggested by the oral surgeon following these procedures:

• Root Canal
• Tooth Extraction (including Wisdom Teeth)
• Dental Implants
• Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery
• Ridge Augmentation
• Bone Grafting
• Sinus Lift

These types of procedures often require patients to stick to soft foods and avoid biting down or chewing with the tooth or area for a period of time. For example, the American Association of Endodontists encourage patients to avoid biting down or chewing after undergoing a root canal until the tooth has been restored and a crown has been placed.

The below list includes some examples of soft food items which can be consumed following oral surgery. Immediately following treatment, you can expect your mouth and jaw to be quite sore. Focus on consuming a variety of nutritious, soft foods which do not require chewing.

• Hearty vegetable soups (broccoli, lentil, minestrone, split pea)
• Juices (cranberry, apple, grape)
• Herbal tea
• Jell-O, pudding or custard
• Sorbet and yogurt (soft or frozen)
• Soft, ripe fruits (banana, papaya, berries, canned peaches or pears)
• Applesauce
• Popsicles, ice cream or milkshakes
• Fresh cooked vegetables (carrots, squash, green beans, spinach)
• Fruit smoothies or protein shakes
• Oatmeal or cream of wheat (made with milk to boost nutrition)
• Eggs (scrambled, soft boiled or egg salad )
• Mashed potatoes or cauliflower
• Rice, couscous, quinoa or bulgur
• Tofu
• Pasta and noodles (plain, buttered or with sauce )
• Fish (tilapia, sole, trout or salmon)
• Soft cheeses
• Cottage cheese
• Meatloaf
• Tortillas (soften by microwaving or steaming)
• Soft-cooked, shredded chicken and tender meat
• Baked or canned fruit (apples or peaches)
• Peanut or alternative nut butter
• Chicken or tuna salad
• Refried or mashed canned beans
• Avocado
• Pancakes
• Soft bread
• Hummus

It is also important to consider the temperature of food and beverage, both hot and cold. For example, consuming hot drinks while healing from the removal of wisdom teeth can irritate gum tissue and complicate the recovery process. Focus on consuming items that are warm instead of steaming hot. It’s best to stick to cooler foods until your oral surgeon allows you to expand your options.

It is important to avoid the following foods for at least a week following oral surgery as they can cause pain and delay your healing:

• Spicy foods
• Citrus fruits and juices
• Foods that are difficult to chew (steak and deli meats)
• Crunchy foods (popcorn, pretzels and chips)
• Crusty breads, bagels, cookies
• Alcoholic beverages

On the day of surgery, it is recommended to start with clear fluids (juices, broth, tea and Jell-O). As the recovery progresses, you can slowly introduce more substantial foods. Maintaining a nutritious diet and following your surgeon’s guidelines will help ensure you have an optimal recovery.

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