Getting a tooth extracted can be a pretty intense procedure, and it can take a few weeks to heal fully. During this time, finding food that’s both easy to eat and satisfying can be tricky.
To help you navigate your recovery, we’ve compiled an extensive list of the 50 best soft foods to eat after a tooth extraction. We included foods of different textures and flavors so you can choose foods that appeal to you!
What to Eat After a Tooth Extraction
There are quite a few different types of soft foods to choose from when recovering from a tooth extraction. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular ones.
Soft Foods for Breakfast
- Applesauce
- Yogurt
- Mashed fruits
- Rice pudding
- Chia pudding
- Tapioca pudding
- Grits
- Scrambled eggs
- Oatmeal
- Soft pancakes
- Fruit puree
- Custard
Soft Foods for Lunch
- Smoothies
- Smoothie bowls
- Hummus
- Macaroni and cheese
- Egg salad
- Soft tofu
- Cream of wheat
- Canned tuna
- Quinoa
- Nut butters
- Seafood bisque
- Mashed potatoes
Soft Foods for Dinner
- Mashed carrots
- Refried beans
- Mashed sweet potatoes
- Broth-based soups
- Room temp soup
- Mashed peas
- Cooked pasta
- Soft gnocchi
- Polenta
- Gravy
- Mashed carrots
- Risotto
- Soft fish
Soft Foods for Snacking
- Pudding
- Popsicles
- Soft cookies
- Canned fruits
- Jello
- Angel food cake
- Marshmallows
- Soft cheeses
- Gelato
- Milkshakes
- Sorbet
- Flan
- Mousse
What Not to Eat After a Tooth Extraction
Now that you have some ideas on what to eat after a tooth extraction, how about the ones you should not eat?
Drinks
- Acidic juices (e.g., orange juice, etc.)
- Alcohol
- Coffee or tea
- Carbonated drinks
- Energy drinks
- Sports drinks
- Drinks that are too hot (Allow to cool to room temperature!)
Foods
- Cracked pepper (It could get stuck in the socket!)
- Spicy, acidic, or crunchy foods
- Popcorn
- Candy
- Nuts
- Rice
- Foods that are too hot. (Allow it to cool to room temperature before enjoying.)
How to Ensure a Speedy Recovery
The healing period of a tooth extraction can be up to a few weeks long. Here are some things you can do to support a speedy recovery:
Practice Healthy Hygiene
- Always wash your hands before handling any food.
- Clean all utensils and cooking surfaces before preparing meals.
- Check that prepared food isn’t too hot or cold.
- Maintain oral hygiene by flossing and brushing twice a day, being extra gentle around the extraction site.
Maintain Balanced Nutrition
- When snacking, opt for soft snacks rather than crunchy ones.
- Make sure each meal is blended, steamed, mashed, boiled, or soaked to ensure softness.
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.
- Stay hydrated.
Follow Daily Activities That Aid Recovery
- Avoid strenuous activities and instead rest and relax.
- Take medications prescribed by your dentist.
- Avoid smoking and using tobacco.
- Keep your head elevated to reduce swelling.
- Stay away from straws.
- Attend any follow-up dentist appointments.
Read more about proper tooth extraction aftercare!
Final Thoughts from the Dentists at Dakota Dental
Hopefully, our list makes your recovery a bit easier. As always, Dakota Dental recommends continuing a healthy oral health routine to help support a speedy recovery.
If you have any questions or concerns about your recent tooth extraction or want to speak to a professional about the procedure, reach out and schedule an appointment with one of our dental professionals!