50 Best Soft Foods to Eat After Tooth Extraction for an Easy Recovery

Having teeth extracted is no picnic, but with the right preparation, you can have a smooth recovery. Focusing on soft foods after surgery can reduce discomfort and allow your mouth to heal properly. Below you'll find 50 soft foods to eat after a tooth extraction, along with recovery tips.

Why is it important to eat soft foods after tooth extraction?

After a tooth extraction, it's important to eat soft foods to help reduce irritation and allow your mouth to heal properly. Generally, these foods are light, easy to chew, and aren't packed with spices or acidic flavors.

Typically, you should eat soft foods for at least 48 hours after oral surgery. By that time, a blood clot should form to protect your extraction site. After this period you can begin to introduce firmer foods back into your diet, but should be mindful of the extraction site. If you have any questions about which foods are good to eat for your specific surgery, contact your dentist directly.

What foods should be avoided after tooth extraction?

Before we get into foods that are good for healing after dental surgery, which foods and drinks should you skip? Check out the list below.

• Acidic or spicy foods. Although these foods may not be hard to chew, their chemical makeup can irritate your gums.

• Sticky foods. Sticky foods such as dried fruits or caramels can delay your healing process.

• Seeds. Since seeds are so tiny, they can easily become dislodged in healing tissues, leading to pain and possible infection.

• Hard/crunchy foods. Although snacks like pretzels, crackers, and chips sound delicious, they can lead to a longer recovery process. The sharp edges of chips and crackers can also scratch and cause discomfort to your gums.

• Aged cheese or milk products. While some dairy like Greek yogurt and cottage cheese are fine to eat while you recover, other kinds should be avoided. Certain dairy products can cause inflammation.

• Hot beverages. Your mouth is sensitive after surgery, even when it's numb. Extremely hot drinks may cause pain or burn your mouth.

What aftercare is important for healing from tooth extraction?

There are a few things you can do to promote healing after a tooth extraction, including:

• Drinking lots of water. Drinking plenty of water after surgery can help flush food particles away from the affected area.

• Avoiding straws. For at least 48 hours after your surgery, you should try to refrain from using a straw. Sucking on a straw may cause the clot to loosen and create a dry socket, which would lead to a longer healing process.

• Using ice packs to reduce pain. On top of pain medicine, ice can help reduce swelling and ease pain in your mouth.

• Using gauze after a tooth extraction. You should keep gauze in your mouth for a few hours after oral surgery to promote blood clotting.

• Take it easy. Similar to other surgeries, it's important to rest your body for a few days after the extraction. Take it extra slow for at least 24 hours after the surgery.

Top 50 soft foods to eat after tooth extraction

• 1. Smoothies

Smoothies are a perfect breakfast option that can provide you with a good source of protein, carbs, vitamins, and minerals. Simply throw in some Greek yogurt or your favorite protein powder, fruit, and some spinach for a quick, tasty, and nutritious meal.

• 2. Oatmeal

Start your day on the right note with a hearty bowl of oatmeal. It's filling, comforting, and goes great with a variety of toppings such as fruit, brown sugar, or cinnamon.

• 3. Cereal

That's right - you can still eat some types of cereal after a tooth extraction. However, you shouldn't eat it dry, as that may hinder your healing process. First, let your cereal soften up in some milk before enjoying.

• 4. Pancakes

Soaked in syrup, pancakes are a great option for a post-surgery breakfast. Go the extra mile and add some blueberries, chocolate chips, or whipped cream for additional sweetness.

• 5. Waffles

Light and fluffy, waffles are another great breakfast option you can find in-store, or prep ahead of time at home.

• 6. Eggs

Eggs are a great high-protein meal option that can be easily made in a variety of ways. You can scramble or fry them, throw them into a frittata, or hard boil them to create a tasty egg salad.

• 7. Avocados

Packed with nutrients and healthy fats, avocados make a good snack or meal option post-tooth extraction. For best results, mash up the avocado, add your favorite seasonings, and serve with eggs for a well-balanced meal.

• 8. Greek yogurt

Greek yogurt is easy on your gums and makes a great cold breakfast or snack option. Plus, it's high in protein, contains less sugar, and is nutrient-dense.

• 9. Cottage cheese

Another option you might want to try besides yogurt is cottage cheese. This protein-filled food can be made sweet or savory. Just add some fruit or herbs, depending on your flavor preference.

• 10. Bananas

This is a sweet and easy snack you can take with you on the go. Or, for a healthier dessert option, freeze the bananas then combine them with nut milk to turn into a non-dairy frozen dessert.

• 11. Mangos

Tropical and sweet mangos make a great soft fruit snack. Throw them on top of some Greek yogurt for a filling, nutrient-packed breakfast.

• 12. Smooth nut butter

For a snack or light meal option, combine a smooth nut butter with soft bread. The creamy, nutty texture provides both protein and healthy fats, keeping you full for hours.

• 13. Bread

Soft sandwich bread is a good staple option to keep in your pantry both before and after your surgery. You can eat it plain, turn it into french toast, or add your favorite (soft) sandwich fillings.

• 14. Banana bread

If you want to put your baking skills to the test, banana bread is soft and gentle on the gums. Plus, baking provides a relaxing pre-surgery activity with a delicious outcome.

• 15. Deli meats

Thinly sliced deli meats such as ham or turkey are a good protein source and easy to eat. You can eat them plain as a snack, or add bread and condiments for an easy lunch option.

• 16. Soft cheese

Whether you're looking for a light snack, or to add some flavor to a main dish, certain soft cheeses are a good choice. Non-aged goat cheeses make a great post-surgery option.

• 17. Pumpkin soup

You don't have to wait for autumn to enjoy this rich, comforting soup. This is one you can buy at the store or make yourself ahead of time, and can offer a healthy dose of vitamin A.

• 18. Butternut squash soup

You can also try a light, creamy butternut squash soup. It's easy to prep before your surgery, too. Just roast some butternut squash in herbs and oil, then blend it up.

• 19. Chicken noodle soup

Warm, comforting, and full of nutrients, chicken noodle soup is a good go-to soft food for seniors after oral surgery. With protein, vegetables and carbs, it's a recipe for a well-balanced meal.

• 20. Applesauce

Whether you prefer store-bought or homemade, applesauce is the perfect sweet treat to enjoy after surgery. You can eat it cold, or heat it in the microwave for 30 seconds with some cinnamon for a warm, healthy dessert option.

• 21. Canned fruit

Before you need to take it easy for a few days, stock up on your favorite canned fruit. From peaches to pears, or a tropical medley, there are plenty of options you can grab for a snack.

• 22. Chicken salad

For a protein-packed, light lunch option, try chicken salad. However, make sure to eliminate celery and nuts as they are difficult to chew after surgery.

• 23. Egg salad

For a scrumptious lunch, combine your hard-boiled eggs with mayonnaise and mustard to create a light egg salad. This is another great recipe to make before your surgery.

• 24. Baked beans

If you're looking for some vegetarian-friendly protein, try baked beans. This plant-based protein is soft, comforting, and delicious.

• 25. Mashed potatoes

Mashed potatoes make a great, soothing meal after a tooth extraction. They're smooth, filling, and provide a delicious buttery flavor that won't disrupt your healing.

• 26. Sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a great side option that can be roasted, mashed, or made into a casserole. Combine them with some simple seasonings and enjoy for up to a week while you recover.

• 27. Mac and cheese

Looking for a classic comfort dish to whip up for dinner? Mac and cheese will hit the spot. Cheesy, creamy, and filling - what more could you ask for?

• 28. Pasta

If mac and cheese isn't your thing, there are plenty of other pasta options you can enjoy as long as it's well cooked. Whether you prefer spaghetti or a pesto pasta, the options are endless.

• 29. Risotto

This gluten-free dish is sure to get your taste buds soaring. If you want to make it before your surgery, risotto can keep in your fridge for up to a week.

• 30. Polenta

Looking to try something new? Polenta is the way to go. This creamy cornmeal dish is easy on your gums and can be flavored in a variety of ways.

• 31. Rice

For a simple side that pairs well with any protein, opt for rice. Plus, this one you can prep ahead of time and keep as leftovers for a few days.

• 32. Black beans and rice

For a protein-packed vegetarian lunch or dinner, try rice and black beans. Black beans provide you with fiber, carbs, and protein making it a great option to eat while recovering.

• 33. Steamed broccoli

Steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, are a soft, healthy side option packed with nutrients and fiber. You can even find frozen broccoli that you can steam in the microwave while you're recovering.

• 34. Squash

You can also try squash if you're looking to get in your daily dose of veggies. Whether you prefer to roast or sautee the vegetable, just make sure that it's a soft consistency before eating.

• 35. Cauliflower

Cauliflower is a great vegetable to have on hand after surgery as it can be made in a variety of ways. You can roast it with a little garlic and olive oil, mash it for a healthy, low-carb side, or blend into roasted cauliflower soup.

• 36. Mashed peas

Peas are a nutrient-dense side option that is filling and easy to digest. Plus, mashing them can make it easier to chew.

• 37. Spinach

If you're looking for an extra boost of vitamin A and C to throw into your meals as you recover, spinach is a great go-to. For easy eating, steam it until soft.

• 38. Baked fish

It can be hard to get in your daily protein intake after a tooth extraction. Luckily, there are many protein options you can still enjoy. Baked fish gives you a boost of omega-3s and protein, and won't disrupt your healing process.

• 39. Meatloaf

For a hearty dish that can keep you satisfied for hours, try meatloaf. This savory dish pairs well with mashed potatoes. You can even make it weeks before your surgery if you freeze it.

• 40. Tofu

For a vegetarian post-op protein, try tofu. Tofu has a soft texture and can be made in a variety of ways.

• 41. Ground beef

Ground beef is an easy-to-make protein you can add to most meals. Add it into a pasta or create a burrito bowl - just skip the crunchy tortilla chips.

• 42. Meatballs

Meatballs are also okay to eat after dental surgery. However, make sure to take small bites and chew carefully so you don't irritate your gums.

• 43. Mussels

Enjoy a taste of the ocean with fresh mussels. They're tender, easy to chew, and packed with protein.

• 44. Pudding

For a sweet snack you can make ahead of time, try pudding. Its creamy, smooth texture can feel great on healing gums.

• 45. Jell-O

If you want a dairy free dessert you can make in advance, try Jell-O. This flavorful, fruity snack is a great pick-me-up between meals.

• 46. Ice cream

Strawberry, chocolate, vanilla, or mint chip - the options are endless. Ice cream can soothe your gums post op and make your taste buds swirl.

• 47. Sherbet

If you're dairy-free but are looking for a sweet treat, try sherbet. It offers the same sweet, soothing qualities as ice cream but with a refreshing, fruity twist.

• 48. Popsicles

After a visit to the dentist, you might be craving a cold treat. Pick up some popsicles from the store, or create your own using fruits and yogurt.

• 49. Cookies

There's something special about a fresh cookie soaked in milk. Luckily, soft baked cookies are fine to eat while healing. However, you'll want to avoid cookies with nuts or store-bought hard cookies, as they can irritate your gums.

• 50. Mousse

Light and flavorful mousse is a popular dessert for all to enjoy. Plus, it's easy to eat and stays fresh for a few days.

Recover from your tooth extraction with Meal Village

After a tooth extraction, you'll need to rest up and relax for a few days, and may not have the energy to cook. Luckily, Meal Village can do the cooking for you. At Meal Village, you'll receive fresh, healthy, delicious soft food meals that are ready to heat-and-eat right at your doorstep. Each week, you can choose which meals you'd like to enjoy out of 130 recipes - then just call or place an order online. It's that simple. No subscriptions or commitments, just nutritious, tasty meals ready at your convenience.