Having a tooth extraction can be intimidating. However, it’s a common dental procedure, whether it’s a baby tooth or a wisdom tooth. After having a tooth removed, it’s important to know what to eat. Eating the wrong foods too soon can harm your mouth, delay healing or cause infection.
Let’s start to address questions like, “Can I eat right after a tooth extraction?” and to better understand what foods you can eat after your tooth extraction in St. Alberta, especially in the first 24 hours.
Can I Eat Right After a Tooth Extraction?
No, you should not be having any food the moment after a tooth extraction. You need to wait until you are no longer numb from the anesthetic. This usually takes 1 – 2 hours. If you have eaten before, the numbness is gone, you may bite your tongue, cheek or lip without knowing.
You should also avoid chewing in or near the area where the tooth was extracted. This area is very sensitive; chewing close to that area can cause bleeding or delay healing.
What Foods Can I Eat After Tooth Removal Surgery?
After your tooth has been removed, your mouth needs soft and gentle foods. You should avoid hard, crunchy, spicy, or sticky foods. These can hurt the extraction site or get stuck in the socket.
Here are some best foods to eat first 24 hours after tooth extraction recommended by a dentist in St. Albert
| Safe Foods (First 24 Hours) | Avoid These Foods |
| Yogurt | Chips |
| Mashed potatoes | Nuts |
| Applesauce | Popcorn |
| Broth or warm soup | Spicy food |
| Scrambled eggs | Crunchy toast |
| Smoothies (no straw) | Acidic fruits |
| Pudding or ice cream | Hard candy |
Tip: Always eat food that is lukewarm or cold. Hot food can cause bleeding in the area where your tooth was removed.
Best Foods to Eat First 24 Hours After Tooth Extraction
The first day is very important for healing. You want to protect the blood clot that forms in the tooth socket. If this clot comes out, it can cause a painful condition called dry socket.
Stick to these soft and cold or room-temperature foods:
- Cold yogurt or pudding – Easy to swallow and soothing
- Applesauce – Gentle on the mouth
- Smoothies without a straw – Full of nutrients but don’t suck through a straw
- Cool soup broth – Helps you stay hydrated and nourished
- Mashed bananas or avocados – Soft and rich in vitamins
Note: Do not use a straw for at least 3 days. Sucking can pull out the blood clot.
Day-by-Day Eating Guide After a Tooth Extraction
Here’s a simple guide to help you know what you can eat after your tooth extraction over the next few days.
Day 1 (First 24 Hours)
- Only eat soft foods.
- No hot drinks or soups.
- Drink water slowly.
- Do not chew on the side where the tooth was removed or eliminated.
Day 2-3
- Continue consuming soft foods like scrambled eggs, noodles, or soft rice.
- Start adding warm (not hot) soups.
- Gently rinse your mouth with salt water after eating (only if your dentist said it’s okay).
Day 4-7
- Slowly add more solid foods if your mouth is healing well.
- Still avoid crunchy or chewy items like chips or steak.
- Keep chewing on the opposite side of your mouth.
Foods to Avoid After Tooth Extraction
To protect your mouth and heal faster after tooth removal, do not eat these foods for at least 7–10 days
- Chips and crackers – these can poke the extraction area
- Hard bread or crusts
- Spicy foods – May cause irritation or pain
- Carbonated drinks (like soda) – Can slow healing
- Alcohol – Can delay recovery and may interact with your pain medicine
- Sticky foods like candy or gum
How Long Until I Can Eat Normally Again?
Most people can return to their regular eating habits after about 1–2 weeks. But it depends on your healing speed and how many teeth were removed. If your mouth is still sore or swollen, stick to soft foods a little longer.
Helpful Aftercare Tips
- Take all medicine your dentist near you gave you
- Rest and avoid heavy activity for 24–48 hours
- Use an ice pack on your cheek to reduce swelling
- Brush your teeth gently, but avoid the extraction area for a few days
- Call your dentist if you have bad pain, swelling, or bleeding that doesn’t stop
Final Words
Can I eat after a tooth extraction? Yes. But you will need to consume the right foods at the right times. Initially, you can eat soft foods that are cool and avoid using straws and progressively return to normal meals. The key to healing and how quickly you can return to your normal activities is how well you follow your dentist’s instructions and how well you care for your mouth.
If you are ever uncertain about what to consume or have any questions anytime after the tooth extraction, you should contact your dental clinic.
Need Help After A Tooth Removal?
The team at Jensen Lakes Dental is here to support you during your healing. We will help you understand what you should be doing and what you should avoid after a tooth removal.
Our friendly team will answer your questions, help explain your aftercare, and ensure that you leave our clinic feeling comfortable. The health of your smile is our priority, and the peace of mind of knowing you are healthy is our primary priority. Call us today or visit Jensen Lakes Dental for your dental care.