What Can I Eat After Dental Surgery?

A common question we hear at Champagne Smiles is, “What soft foods can you eat after oral surgery procedures?”

After oral surgery or dental implants, it’s important to eat soft foods that don’t require much chewing. Some ideas include:

• Soups, broths, and smoothies
• Yogurt or cottage cheese
• Mashed potatoes, cauliflower, avocado or carrots
• Scrambled eggs
• Oatmeal blended with a banana
• Applesauce and other fruit or vegetable purees
• Salmon (cooked and pureed)
• Ice cream, pudding, and Jello

After your surgery, we’ll provide you with specific aftercare instructions. Generally speaking, we recommend soft foods for 24 hours after your procedure. Avoid hot foods and beverages for several hours and don’t use a straw for at least 24 hours.

Protein is a critical building block when it comes to repairing tissues after dental implant surgery and preventing infection, so Dr. Champagne recommends eating more protein than you normally would to optimize healing. Protein powders are a great way to accomplish this if you find that you don’t have much of an appetite.

Many patients worry that they won’t be able to hit their protein goals if they can’t eat meat and nuts, but with some creativity, you can get all the protein you need even when you’re sticking to a diet of soft foods. Here are some tips:

• Add protein powder, silken tofu, or peanut butter to smoothies.
• Incorporate protein-packed eggs, beans, lentils, or tofu into your meals.
• Stock up on high protein soft dairy products like Greek yogurt and string cheese.
• When you’re able to begin eating meat again, start with softer meats like ground beef, chicken, or fish.

We expect that you’ll have very little appetite after oral surgery—and even if you are hungry, you may feel nervous about eating. That said, it’s important to eat so your body has the fuel it needs to heal from surgery. Stock up on a variety of foods prior to your surgery so that afterwards, you can choose something that appeals to you. If you’re not hungry, sip on broth and protein shakes.

• Get the rest you need to heal.
• Avoid physical activity and take it easy.
• Apply ice packs or cold compresses to your face for 15 minutes on and then 15 minutes off to reduce swelling.
• Follow the dietary guidelines listed above.
• Take any antibiotics that you’re prescribed.
• Take your pain medication as directed.
• Keep your mouth clean with salt water rinses and gentle brushing, as directed.
• Stay hydrated by sipping on water and broth all day long.
• Avoid alcohol and tobacco.
• Practice good oral hygiene.
• Eat foods rich in vitamin A and C.

Do you have any questions about what to eat after dental implants or oral surgery? Call us today at 732-972-0918.