What to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Diet plays an important role in healing after wisdom teeth removal. The foods you eat—and the ones you avoid—can affect pain levels, reduce the risk of complications, and support faster recovery.
What to eat after wisdom teeth removal is one of the first questions many patients ask. Immediately after surgery, a liquid (or nearly-liquid) diet is best, as it protects the surgical site and requires little to no chewing. As healing progresses throughout the first week, you can gradually introduce soft foods. Hard, sticky, or crunchy food should still be avoided. And absolutely no straws.
Patients of Bergen Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery not only receive expert care during wisdom teeth extraction surgery, but exceptional aftercare as well. With more than 70 years of experience serving Bergen County, our team of qualified oral surgeons supports patients from consultation through recovery and beyond. In this guide, you’ll learn about the best foods to eat after wisdom teeth surgery and what to avoid to make your recovery as smooth as possible.
Key Takeaways:
- Eating soft, easy-to-chew foods protects the extraction sight and prevents irritation or injury.
- Avoiding hard, crunchy, or sticky foods reduces risk of complications.
- Nutrient-rich foods support faster healing and reduce inflammation.
- Proper hydration is important for recovery.
- Bergen Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery provides clear post-operative dietary guidance to ensure safe healing.
Recommended Foods After Wisdom Teeth Removal
As you recover from wisdom teeth removal surgery, it’s important to choose foods that are soft, easy-to-eat, and nutrient-dense to support your body’s healing. Your dietary needs will evolve as your recovery progresses, starting with a focus on liquids and gradually expanding to include more variety.
Safe Foods by Recovery Stage
The table below outlines recommended foods to eat after wisdom teeth surgery at each stage of recovery. No matter what stage, choose foods that are lukewarm or cool rather than hot. Smooth textures and minimal chewing help to reduce irritation and support healing.
| Recovery Stage | Recommended Foods | Why These Foods Help |
|---|---|---|
| First 24–48 Hours | Broth, yogurt, applesauce, smoothies (no straw), protein shakes | Require no chewing, reduce irritation, support hydration |
| Days 3–5 | Mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, oatmeal, cottage cheese | Soft texture supports healing while adding nutrition |
| Days 5–7+ | Soft pasta, well-cooked vegetables, flaky fish, soft rice | Easy-to-chew foods allow gradual return to normal eating |
Foods and Habits to Avoid
Certain foods and habits can disrupt healing, increase discomfort, and increase the risk of complications such as dry socket. As you’re deciding what to eat after wisdom teeth removal, avoiding these items is essential.
Foods and Drinks to Avoid During Recovery
The table below highlights behaviors and foods to avoid after wisdom teeth surgery, while also explaining why they can be harmful.
| Foods / Habits to Avoid | Examples | Why to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Hard or Crunchy Foods | Chips, nuts, popcorn, raw vegetables | Can damage the extraction site or get lodged in the socket |
| Sticky or Chewy Foods | Gum, caramels, gummy candy | Can pull on stitches or disrupt healing |
| Hot, Spicy, or Acidic Foods | Hot soup, spicy sauces, citrus fruits | Can irritate the surgical site and increase discomfort |
| Straws and Carbonated Drinks | Soda, sparkling water, iced coffee with straw | Suction can dislodge the blood clot and cause dry socket |
| Alcohol and Smoking | Beer, wine, cigarettes, vaping | Slows healing and increases risk of infection |
Tips for a Comfortable Recovery
Diet is only one part of proper aftercare for wisdom teeth surgery. The following steps can further help to reduce discomfort and avoid some of the most common complications of wisdom teeth removal, such as dry socket and infection.
- Apply a cold compress during the first 24-36 hours to reduce swelling.
- Avoid brushing your teeth for 24 hours after surgery. After 24 hours, you can gently brush your teeth, avoiding the surgery site.
- Take prescription or over-the-counter pain medications as directed by your surgeon.
- Avoid touching or disturbing the surgical site.
- Stay well-hydrated and keep physical activity to a minimum for several days.
- Starting the day after surgery, gently rinse with salt water 4-5 times per day for 1-2 weeks.
Learn more about How Wisdom Teeth Get Infected.
Some swelling and bleeding is normal after surgery. If bleeding occurs, place gauze on the incision site and bite down gently for 30 minutes. Using a moistened tea bag in the place of gauze can also help promote clotting.
You’ll find more expert recommendations from the BOMS team, including what to eat after wisdom teeth removal and how to care for your surgery site, on our Post-Operative Instructions page.
Post-Wisdom Teeth Recovery Guidance from Bergen Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
Eating soft foods while avoiding alcohol, smoking, and straws isn’t fun, but these recommendations are essential to support your recovery while reducing the risk of painful complications. Carefully following the instructions provided by your surgeon helps to help you get back on your feet as soon as possible after wisdom teeth extraction surgery.
Trusted by dentists and patients in Bergen County for more than 70 years, the Bergen Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery team combines advanced training, dual-degree surgeons, and experience to provide exceptional care during and after wisdom teeth removal surgery.
With four locations in Franklin Lakes, Hackensack, Paramus, and Westwood—and more than 2,000 reviews and a nearly five-star Google rating—our team is ready to support your wisdom teeth removal and healing with convenience and care, including helping you decide what to eat after wisdom teeth removal.
To schedule a consultation, call or text 201-477-2667 or request an appointment online.
Doctor-Owned. Doctor-Directed. Patient-Centered Care You Can Trust.
Wisdom Teeth Recovery (FAQ)
How Long Should I Stick to Soft Foods After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Most patients follow a soft-food diet for the first 5-7 days, gradually reintroducing regular foods as healing progresses. Always monitor your own progress before introducing new foods and follow your surgeon’s specific recommendations.
Can I Drink Smoothies or Milkshakes After Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery?
Yes, milkshakes and smoothies are great options after surgery as long as you avoid using a straw, which can dislodge the protective blood clot.
Are There Foods That Speed Up Healing After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Protein-rich, nutrient-dense foods like yogurt, mashed vegetables, and smoothies can support faster recovery by ensuring you get all the nutrients you need, even with a limited diet.
What Should I Do If I Accidentally Eat Something I Shouldn’t After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water, avoid disturbing the surgical site, and contact Bergen Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery if you experience pain, swelling, or bleeding.
