You just had some work on your teeth done. Now there are a few restrictions on you while you heal. One of those restrictions is the food you can consume. Your provider likely gave you a brief run-down of your limitations, but here’s a refresher on what to eat—and not eat—after dental work, and why.
Eat: Soft Foods
After your procedure, your teeth and gums will be sensitive. Stick to soft foods that don’t require much chewing. Smoothies, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and puréed soups are all solid picks that won’t put stress on your mouth as it heals.
Avoid: Crunchy and Hard Foods
Stay away from anything crunchy or hard. This includes chips, nuts, hard candies, and even ice. These foods require a lot of chewing pressure, which can damage new dental work like fillings or crowns. Biting down on something hard could even cause a new crack in a vulnerable tooth.
Eat: Cold Foods
Cold foods and drinks can soothe your mouth after a dental procedure. They help reduce swelling and numb any soreness you might feel. Try some ice cream, sorbet, or a cold smoothie to get some relief and calories.
Avoid: Sticky Foods
Avoid sticky foods like caramels and taffy after dental work, especially if you want to ensure a smooth recovery after a root canal or other procedures that involve temporary fillings or crowns. Sticky foods can pull these out, and if they do, you’ll need to get them replaced, which can set back your recovery timeline.
Eat: Nutrient-Rich Foods
Your body needs nutrients to heal properly, so don’t forget to eat well. Scrambled eggs, oatmeal, and protein shakes are all easy to eat and packed with the nutrients your body needs to recover.
Avoid: Spicy and Acidic Foods
Spicy or acidic foods can cause serious irritation to your mouth. Avoid foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and anything with a bit of a kick. They can cause discomfort and slow down your healing process.
Your Diet Post-Procedure
There are foods you should avoid after a procedure—these are foods that can cause pain or interfere with healing. But there are still plenty of soft, nutritious foods you can eat while you wait for your mouth to recover. Following your dentist’s guidance on what to eat and not eat after dental work will help you have a smooth and speedy recovery.
