What to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal

Selecting the right foods after surgery is crucial to promote healing and prevent complications like dry socket. Here are some recommended options:

Smoothies

Smoothies are an excellent choice because they are easy to consume and can be a great source of important nutrients. Try using soft fruits like bananas or mangoes. You should also consider adding protein powder or Greek yogurt, as protein supplementation has been shown to be beneficial for all types of surgeries. ^[1] Andrew George, et al. Post-operative protein supplementation following orthopaedic surgery: A systematic review, Sports Medicine and Health Science, Volume 6, Issue 1, 2024, Pages 16-24, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smhs.2023.08.002.

Avoid using fruits with seeds, such as strawberries, and refrain from using a straw to prevent dislodging the blood clot. ^[2] Houston Oral Surgery Associates. What to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal: Dos, Don'ts, and Care Tips. Houston Oral Surgery Associates. Published 2025. Accessed May 23, 2025.

Broths and Soups

Warm (but not hot) broths and pureed soups provide hydration and essential nutrients. Bone broth, in particular, is rich in amino acids that support healing. Ensure soups are smooth and free of chunks to avoid any gum irritation. ^[2] Houston Oral Surgery Associates. What to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal: Dos, Don'ts, and Care Tips. Houston Oral Surgery Associates. Published 2025. Accessed May 23, 2025.

Mashed Potatoes and Soft Vegetables

Mashed potatoes may be the best food to choose because they provide both comfort and energy. You can also enjoy mashed or pureed vegetables like carrots or squash, which offer additional vitamins and minerals necessary for recovery.

Applesauce and Pureed Fruits

Applesauce is gentle on the mouth and provides vitamin C, which aids in healing. ^[3] Ramón R, Holguín E, Chiriboga JD, Rubio N, Ballesteros C, Ezechieli M. Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Vitamin C during the Postoperative Period in Patients Subjected to Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Pers Med. 2023;13(9):1299. Published 2023 Aug 25. doi:10.3390/jpm13091299 Other pureed fruits like peaches or pears can also be soothing and nutritious.

Scrambled Eggs

Soft scrambled eggs are a great source of protein and healthy fats and are easy to chew. Eggs contain vitamins A and D, which are beneficial for tissue repair. ^[4] Ishith Seth, et al. Impact of nutrition on skin wound healing and aesthetic outcomes: A comprehensive narrative review, JPRAS Open, Volume 39, 2024,Pages 291-302, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpra.2024.01.006.

Yogurt and Pudding

These cool, smooth foods can fill you up and soothe the surgical area. Opt for plain or low-sugar varieties to avoid irritation. An added benefit - yogurt also provides probiotics that support gut health.

Oatmeal

Once you're ready to introduce slightly more textured foods, oatmeal can be a good option. Ensure the oats are well-cooked and free from nuts or seeds. ^[5] Oakleigh Dental Centre. Food to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal. Oakleigh Dental Centre. Published March 17, 2023. Accessed May 23, 2025.

Ice Cream

Cold treats lie ice cream can help numb the area and provide comfort. Choose varieties without crunchy mix-ins and if you’re having a milkshake avoid using a straw. ^[2] Houston Oral Surgery Associates. What to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal: Dos, Don'ts, and Care Tips. Houston Oral Surgery Associates. Published 2025. Accessed May 23, 2025.

Protein Shakes

If chewing is difficult, protein shakes can help you meet your calorie and protein requirements. Make sure they are blended well and avoid ingredients like chia seeds.

Sorbet

This dairy free frozen dessert can provide soothing relief to sore mouths. While sorbets are typically lower in calories than ice cream, some contain very high amounts of sugar, so be sure to read the nutrition label and be mindful of your serving size.

Avocado

Naturally soft and loaded with healthy fats, avocados are gentle on sore gums. In addition to their smooth and creamy texture they are rich in potassium and fiber. Serve them mashed with a pinch of salt or blended into a smoothie for extra creaminess.

Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is soft and easy to eat and it’s high in protein (which is an important nutrient for tissue repair). Try it plain or mix it with soft fruits like peaches for a more satisfying snack.

Hummus

This smooth and creamy spread made of chickpeas is a good option for getting in more plant-based protein. It’s easy to wallow without chewing and provides fiber, iron, and anti-inflammatory compounds. Try it as a topping on cooked soft veggies.

Well-Cooked Pasta

When you’re recovering from wisdom teeth surgery, you’ll want to skip the al dente pasta. The good news is that very soft pasta can usually be tolerated a few days post-surgery once swelling subsides. Skip the tomato sauce (it’s too acidic), instead opt for a simple drizzle of olive oil.

Soft Fish (like Salmon)

Soft flaky fish is an excellent source of protein and omega 3’s, and it’s also easy to chew. Try steaming or baking the fish until tender, and be careful to avoid any small bones.

Foods to Avoid After Wisdom Teeth Removal

Certain foods can hinder the healing process or cause complications. It's best to avoid the following:

Crunchy & Hard Foods

Foods like chips, nuts, and raw vegetables can irritate the surgical site. Wait at least a week before reintroducing these items. ^[6] Denver Youth Dental. What to Eat After Wisdom Tooth Removal: A Guide for Parents. Denver Youth Dentistry. Published May 6, 2024. Accessed May 23, 2025.

Sticky Foods

Chewy candies, toffee, and peanut butter can adhere to the surgical area, and may even increase the risk of infection. Avoid these types of food until your mouth has fully healed.

Acidic Foods

Highly acidic foods like citrus fruits and tomato sauce can cause irritation and discomfort. It's advisable to steer clear of these during the initial healing period.

Spicy Foods

Spicy foods can cause pain after oral surgery so it's best to hold off on the hot sauce until after you make a full recovery.

Popcorn

Popcorn kernels can be sharp and may easily get lodged in healing sockets, which makes them a risk for infection. Talk to your healthcare provider about when you can safely enjoy snack again.

Crackers and Toast

These dry foods can crumble into sharp pieces that may scratch sensitive gum tissue. Wait until your dentist confirms it’s safe to reintroduce firm crunchy textures.

Rice and Quinoa

These small grains can sneak into surgical sites and impair wound healing. It's best to avoid them until the surgical site is healed.

Hot Foods & Drinks

Consuming hot items can cause damage and delay healing. Allow foods and beverages to cool to a lukewarm temperature before eating or drinking. 

Alcohol

In addition to irritating the surgical site, alcohol can also interfere with certain prescription medications. Experts recommend you wait at least 7-10 days before drinking alcohol to ensure you are fully recovered and off any prescribed medications. ^[7] South Florida Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. Can You Drink Alcohol After a Tooth Extraction? South Florida Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. Published January 16, 2025. Accessed May 23, 2025.

Grains & Seeds

Small particles from grains and seeds can get lodged in the surgical site, causing irritation or infection. Wait until the area has fully healed before consuming these foods. ^[8] Healthline. What to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal: Soft Foods and More.

Additional Tips for Eating Comfortably After Surgery

• Eat slowly and chew gently to avoid disturbing the surgical site.
• Use the unaffected side of your mouth if possible.
• Maintain oral hygiene by gently rinsing your mouth after meals.
• Choose room-temperature foods to prevent irritation.
• Optimizing fluid levels can decrease complications after surgery so drink plenty of water. ^[9] Miller TE, Mythen M. Current concepts of fluid management in enhanced recovery pathways. Br J Anaesth. 2015;115(6):S65–S71. doi:10.1016/j.bja.2015.07.026. Accessed May 23, 2025.
• Gradually reintroduce more textured foods as you heal.

Sample Soft Food Meal Plan

Day 1

• Breakfast: Smoothie blended with banana, chocolate protein powder, and almond milk
• Lunch: Blended veggie gazpacho (try squash and avocado for a bright and creamy soup)
• Dinner: Mashed potatoes with pureed carrots and bone broth
• Snacks: Applesauce, plain yogurt

Day 2

• Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with soft oatmeal
• Lunch: Creamy sweet potato soup with avocado mash on the side
• Dinner: Soft pasta with pureed butternut squash
• Snacks: Pudding, Sorbet

Day 3

• Breakfast: Cottage cheese with mashed peaches
• Lunch: Mashed cauliflower with flaky baked salmon (skin off)
• Dinner: Homemade soup with soft pasta and bone broth
• Snacks: Popsicle, Greek yogurt

Day 4

• Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with half an avocado
• Lunch: Soft mashed beans with pureed cauliflower
• Dinner: Steamed salmon (skin off) with mashed sweet potatoes
• Snacks: Ice cream, Applesauce

Day 5

• Breakfast: Smoothie blended with banana, peanut butter protein powder, and coconut milk
• Lunch: Pureed lentil soup with a side of whipped potatoes
• Dinner: Miso soup with extra soft tofu
• Snacks: Sorbet, Cottage cheese with pureed fruit

Conclusion

Healing after wisdom teeth removal can take approximately two weeks, and it's essential to be patient with yourself and your diet during that period. ^[10] Cleveland Clinic. Wisdom Teeth Removal: Procedure & Recovery. Cleveland Clinic. Published 2023. Accessed May 23, 2025.

Sticking to soft, gentle foods can promote healing and prevent complications. Always consult with your dentist or oral surgeon if you have concerns about your diet or if you experience any unusual symptoms.