Eating after oral surgery is a common struggle for our patients. If you’re also dealing with this problem or about to undergo dental work, we’re here to help. We listed here some easy-to-eat soft foods after oral surgery that will keep you full on your way to recovery.
What are some soft foods to eat after oral surgery?
Aside from comfort, proper nutrition after oral surgery is crucial to reduce the risk of complications. It will also decrease swelling and promote faster wound healing.
Whether you underwent wisdom tooth extraction, dental bone graft, or periodontal surgery, these food items should be on your grocery list:
1. Ice cream
Yes, you read that right! Ice cream is one of the recommended soft foods to eat after oral surgery.
But wait. It’s sweet and can damage your teeth, right? Well, let us explain.
The cold temperature of ice cream can help reduce the swelling in your mouth after the operation. It will somehow numb the pain and allow you to alternately eat other food items.
Aside from oral surgery, ice cream is also comforting after root canal therapy. Dentists will also recommend it as a soothing treat after getting dental implants.
Still, everything should be in moderation and you must observe proper dental hygiene. Make sure you brush your teeth well and drink lots of water after enjoying your scoop.
2. Broth
Do you want something savory? Broth would be a convenient choice.
Broth is one of the healthy soft foods after oral surgery since it’s packed with vitamins and minerals. All these will boost your immune system and aid your recovery.
Aside from that, broth is a good source of hydration, which is also crucial during the recovery process. Also, broth helps soothe root canal pain after the procedure.
3. Blended Soups
Blended soups offer a range of soft food recipes after oral surgery. Aside from that, they are easy to swallow and provide essential nutrients.
Whether you prefer creamy tomato soup or a hearty vegetable purée, there are countless options to suit your taste buds. To make these soups, simply cook your desired ingredients until tender and then blend them until smooth. Adding some low-sodium broth or dairy-free milk can give your soup a comforting consistency.
Aside from that, you can turn blended soups into keto soft foods after oral surgery with the right ingredients.
4. Fermented Dairy
Fermented dairy products such as yogurt and kefir offer multiple benefits for post-oral surgery patients. These items contain probiotics that promote gut health and aid in digestion. This is helpful since your digestion might be disrupted due to medications taken during the recovery period.
Moreover, you can opt for plain, unsweetened varieties without any added fruit chunks or granola. It’s because these tiny bits may irritate sensitive areas in your mouth.
However, some dentists may advise you to not take dairy after an extraction, depending on certain conditions.
5. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is not only warm and soothing but also packed with fiber and nutrients like iron and magnesium. These minerals aid in the healing process after oral surgery.
Moreover, you should choose instant oats if chewing is still uncomfortable or go for steel-cut oats for more texture. You can easily adjust the consistency by adding more liquid if needed, ensuring a comfortable eating experience.
And if you want some cold soft foods after oral surgery, you can simply chill your bowl of oatmeal in the fridge.
6. Mashed Potato
Mashed potatoes are a classic soft food to eat after oral surgery. This comfort food is both nourishing and easy to consume after undergoing dental work.
Moreover, you can prepare them using boiled or steamed potatoes. After that, you will mash them with some butter or olive oil until smooth and creamy.
But if you prefer some added flavor, consider mixing in garlic powder, chives, or low-sodium chicken broth. Feel free to experiment to satisfy your taste buds while keeping your sensitive gums comfy.
7. Scrambled Eggs
Running out of soft food ideas after oral surgery? Scrambled eggs would be a basic yet convenient option!
Scrambled eggs are a protein-rich option that can be easily enjoyed after oral surgery. Soft and fluffy, they provide your body with essential nutrients for healing while being gentle on your mouth.
Simply cook it with a small amount of butter over low heat, stirring gently until they reach a custard-like consistency. You can also add some shredded cheese or finely chopped veggies to enhance the flavors.
8. Smoothies
Smoothies are not only refreshing but also packed with vitamins and minerals that aid in recovery.
To make a smoothie, you need a blender to combine your favorite fruits like bananas, berries, or mangoes. You also need some liquids such as milk (dairy or plant-based) or yogurt for added creaminess and protein. To boost the nutritional value further, consider adding spinach or kale for an extra dose of vitamins.
Overall, smoothies make great soft protein foods after oral surgery while giving you a dose of nutrients.
9. Applesauce
Applesauce is a versatile soft food option that is easy to swallow after oral surgery. It also offers essential nutrients like fiber and vitamin C.
You can opt for unsweetened applesauce without any chunks to prevent irritation in your mouth during the healing process.
If you prefer some variety, try mixing in cinnamon or nutmeg in this soft food for after oral surgery. You can also mix it with other food items here like oatmeal or yogurt.
10. Salmon
Contrary to misconceptions, it’s not really bad to eat seafood after oral surgery. In fact, some seafood items like salmon can be a big help for your recovery.
Soft-cooked salmon is an excellent choice for those seeking high-quality protein after oral surgery. It offers omega-3 fatty acids that support overall health and aid in reducing inflammation in the body.
You can bake or steam the salmon until it becomes flaky and easily breaks apart with a fork. You can also season it with herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing taste.
Overall, salmon is one of those soft dinner foods after oral surgery that you’ll truly enjoy.
11. Soft Fruits
Soft fruits such as bananas, avocados, and ripe peaches provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber while being gentle on your mouth. These fruits can be enjoyed as is or mashed to the desired consistency.
They are not only nutritious but also help satisfy your craving for something sweet during the recovery process. Also, you can eat them as soft breakfast foods after oral surgery if you want something simple and easy to prepare.
12. Tofu
If you’re looking for good soft foods to eat after oral surgery, you’ll never go wrong with tofu.
Tofu is an excellent plant-based protein source that can be cooked in various ways to suit your taste. You can enjoy it baked, steamed, or scrambled until soft and easy to chew.
Overall, feel free to experiment with different marinades or sauces to make your tofu dishes even more enjoyable. This is a versatile food item that you can turn into different dishes.
13. Deli Meat
You can still enjoy some guilty pleasures after oral surgery by enjoying a serving of deli meat.
Deli meats like turkey or chicken slices offer a convenient option for a protein-rich meal without requiring much effort in preparation. Opt for thinly sliced varieties that are easier to chew and swallow without causing discomfort.
14. Meatloaf
Meatloaf is both delicious and tender, making it one of the good soft foods for after oral surgery. You can choose a recipe that combines ground meat with breadcrumbs and other soft ingredients for added flavor.
Consider baking individual portions to easily customize serving sizes according to your appetite. You can also experiment with other ingredients to suit your taste.
15. Pancakes
Pancakes are a comforting breakfast treat that can also be enjoyed any time of the day after oral surgery. Make sure to prepare them using a soft recipe that yields fluffy pancakes without any hard edges or chunks. This way, you won’t hurt the surgical site.
Aside from that, you can top your pancakes with softened butter and syrup. You can also opt for softer additions like applesauce or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Do you need more post-op guidance? NoHo Family Dental can help!
Recovering from oral surgery doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor and nutrition. With this soft foods after oral surgery list, you can still enjoy delicious meals while promoting healing and comfort.
From ice cream to pancakes, there are plenty of choices to suit your taste. Remember to listen to your body and consult your dentist for specific dietary recommendations during the recovery process. By nourishing yourself with these soft food items, you can make your post-surgery journey more enjoyable while ensuring a speedy recovery.
If you need more post-surgery advice, don’t hesitate to call us at NoHo Family Dental. We care for your oral health and we always aim to give you a worthwhile recovery period. Schedule your appointment today and we’ll see you in our office!
