What you should know about tooth extraction
Tooth extraction feels exactly how it sounds. Getting a tooth extracted is a long chain of events where you have to take care of the extraction site for a few weeks. That means taking care of brushing and cleaning the site correctly, avoiding strenuous activities right after the extraction, and avoiding putting undue pressure on the site by sucking or smoking.
However, our teeth’ main objective and our mouth are to help us in consuming our food. You have certain restrictions on what you can eat and cannot eat after having a tooth extraction.
How To Eat After an Extraction?
Your way of eating is just as important as what you eat right after getting an extraction. It is best to use the opposite side of the affected site in the mouth to chew and eat your food for a few days post-extraction. You may think it will be better to use a straw because you will be consuming a liquid diet. However, avoid the use of straw as the suction action may cause an increase in your healing period.
What Can You Eat?
For the first 24 hours, liquid and soft food like mashed potatoes are the only things you can consume. Gradually, you can switch to regular food when you begin to feel comfortable.
Yogurt, pudding, applesauce, scrambled eggs, oatmeal, pancakes, and broth-based soups (without large meat chunks) are the best for you. However, make sure that you take them at room temperature and not scalding hot. You can also eat ice cream without any crunchy or chewy candy pieces and avoid using ice cream cones.
What Shouldn’t You Eat?
Altogether avoid hard, crunchy, and chewy food for about a week after the extraction. Even crispy and grainy foods are not a good option for your tooth extraction site. You will also not be able to chew tough meats, which means that the only way to get your protein would be from dairy products. Also, avoid consuming alcohol.
Tooth extraction can take a few weeks of recovery time. That is why it is crucial to maintain a strict regime of hygiene activities and only eat what suits the mouth during the recovery time. In case of a problem or sudden pain, you must immediately revert to soft foods and talk to your dentist.