Wisdom teeth are referred to as ‘third molars’ and are usually the last ones to sprout. Located at the back of your gums, these teeth can take a long time to fully grow, probably between ages 15 to 25.
Sometimes, lack of space within your gum tissue can lead to overcrowding. As a result, your wisdom teeth may find it difficult to sprout properly and cause issues. These teeth are referred to as ‘Impacted teeth’. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, decay or pressure on the adjacent molars, leading to extended pain, swelling and discomfort.
The process is carried out by a dentist or dental surgeon. After you book an appointment with a tooth extraction dentist near you, they will perform an examination to determine whether you require a wisdom tooth extraction or not.
The entire process takes around 1.5 to 2 hours and is done under the influence of general anesthesia. Post your surgery, our dentist in Seton will brief you on the plausible side effects and what foods to consume.
Post-surgery care
It is essential to pay attention to the right foods to eat after you’ve had your wisdom teeth extraction in Cranston. The site of your surgery is incredibly sensitive and shouldn’t be exposed to excessive duress. Excessive stress on or near the extraction site can lead to the blood clot being dislodged and cause further dental complications.
Additionally, it is also important to eat foods with high nutritional value to substitute for items you are unable to eat. Prefer food items with high protein, vitamins and minerals to ensure rapid healing.
- Avoid eating food items that are hard to chew.
- Avoid hot foods for at least two days post your tooth extraction.
- Eat soft foods with high nutritional value.
- Avoid alcohol consumption and smoking for up to a week after your extraction.
- DO NOT use straws for consuming beverages. Instead, take small sips.
Foods to eat after wisdom tooth extraction
Here are a few food items that you can eat after you’ve had a wisdom tooth extraction in Calgary.
- Soups and broths
The best food items to consume after extraction are soups. They provide plenty of nutrition while also being easy to consume and digest. They also help you stay hydrated, which is essential after surgery. Just make sure they’re not too hot or they don’t contain too many chunks. Tomato, chicken broth and pumpkin soups are good options.
- Greek yogurt
It’s been proven that high-protein foods promote faster recovery. Greek yogurt has the perfect texture and mineral values to make it a perfect food to eat. It is high in zinc, which promotes wound healing.
- Scrambled eggs
If you’re looking for something delicious and fulfilling, scrambled eggs are your go-to after an extraction. They are easy to chew, tasteful and make for a fulfilling meal.
- Mashed potatoes or bananas
Mashed potatoes are a staple and preferred comfort food all over the world. Bananas have a texture that can be further softened by mashing them. They are both rich in calories and nutrients, both of which are crucial for a speedy recovery and energy to survive the day.
- Smoothies
In case you’re having difficulty chewing foods at all, you can opt for smoothies. They can be customized according to your needs and preferences and provide you with energy. Adding a scoop of protein powder might help fulfill the protein requirement for the day as well. Just make sure to not have it with a straw!
Foods NOT to eat after a wisdom tooth extraction
- Rice
- Popcorn
- Chips
- Anything spicy
- Hard fruits like apples or carrots
- Dry fruits or nuts
- Cookies
- Candies
Although getting your wisdom tooth extraction might feel like an intimidating task, it is quite uncomplicated. Having a dentist near you in Seton or Cranston that can guide you through the entire process is crucial. Come visit us at Seton Dental Wellness to get a consultation today!