You may be wondering what you after a tooth extraction that will speed up recovery. In fact, your recovery and comfort after surgery depend completely on your ability to follow the instructions given by your dentist. A big part of these instructions is keeping up with an adjusted diet during the days following the extraction.
Certain foods should be avoided in the first few days after surgery. This helps to promote healing and prevent complications that could prolong healing time.
Following a tooth extraction, patients are encouraged to eliminate certain foods from the diet. Choose nutritious, liquid foods for the first few days after surgery.
Broths and blended soups are the best choices immediately after surgery. Choose soups without solid pieces in them to avoid getting food particles stuck in the surgery site. Blended soups like squash, tomato or pumpkin are rich in nutrients and are easy to consume. Soups like these are generally rich in vitamins and minerals and help to support the immune system while healing.
Chicken and beef broths are excellent choices as well. Bone broth is a type of soup that is praised for health benefits and can support healing by decreasing inflammation. Try to avoid broths with too much sodium, though. Consume soups lukewarm or cold so as not to irritate the surgical site. Soups are hydrating as well. Staying hydrated is an important factor in promoting the healing process.
This healthy, high protein food is a favorite for those who have just undergone oral surgery. A diet rich in protein is proven to speed up the healing process. Low protein has repeatedly been linked to slower recovery time. The smooth texture and cold temperature of greek yogurt is soothing to the mouth and easy to process. Greek yogurt is also high in zinc, which promotes wound healing.
This smooth, fruity snack is an excellent source of vitamin C to support the immune system and boost recovery. Applesauce does not have the same vitamin and mineral content of an actual apple, but this tasty food is still a great way to increase fruit intake while on the mend.
Because mashed veggies require mouth movement, this food can be introduced after the first 3 days post-surgery. Mashed potatoes can be eaten in this time period as well. Remember to make food as soft as possible –– so, if using a food processor, try to eliminate all chunks to make sure nothing gets stuck in the surgery site.
Scrambled eggs can be introduced after the first 3 days as well. Eggs are easy to chew and swallow and are high in protein. Scrambled eggs are also abundant in vitamins and minerals. Omega-3 fats help in wound healing as well and are present in eggs in a healthy quantity.
Ice cream and jello are great choices for post op. Both cold and warm food can help to minimize swelling.
Choosing the right dentist for your tooth extraction can be a difficult process. Call our office today to set up an appointment with one of our highly trained, friendly dentists and ease your worries about your upcoming extraction.
Request an appointment here: https://www.petersmrecekdds.com or call Peter T. Smrecek Jr. DDS Inc. at (949) 759-8606 for an appointment in our Newport Beach office.
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