The goal of dentistry is to help you keep your natural teeth healthy and in place. But sometimes one or more teeth may need to be extracted. Teeth are removed for a variety of reasons from severe decay and gum disease to orthodontic treatment needs. The primary goal of dentistry is to maintain your natural teeth. But there are times that a tooth can’t be saved or the extraction is needed to accomplish a better treatment outcome.
If you have an upcoming tooth extraction procedure, or if you’ve recently had a tooth removed, you may be wondering how soon you can resume your usual diet. Read on to learn more about tooth extraction and recovery.
The Tooth Extraction Procedure
A tooth extraction is a relatively simple procedure in most cases. Local anesthesia is used to numb the nerves in and around the tooth. It is gently loosened and removed from the socket. If needed, a few sutures may be used to close the gum tissue. In some cases a bone graft is placed in the socket after the tooth is extracted to prepare for the placement of a dental implant.
Recovery
After a tooth extraction your mouth may be sore for a few days. Eating a soft diet and rinsing with salt water a few times a day can help relieve any discomfort. Over the counter pain relievers may also help if needed. Most people experience complete healing within 3 to 6 weeks following the procedure.
Foods to Eat After Tooth Extraction
The following foods are soft and require little to no chewing so you can avoid discomfort.
- Yogurt
- Cottage cheese
- Pudding
- Jello
- Mashed potatoes
- Soup (not chunky)
When you’re ready for more solid foods, these are good suggestions. Try to avoid chewing in the area of your extraction.
- Scrambled eggs
- Pasta
- Cheese
- Soft bread
- Chunky soup
Foods and Beverages to Avoid After Tooth Extraction
The following are best avoided until your mouth has had time to recover or fully heal.
- Soda and other carbonated beverages
- Hot foods and beverages (temperature)
- Spicy foods
- Crunchy or hard foods
Why You Should Postpone Drinking Soda
Soda should be avoided for at least 48 hours after a tooth extraction for the following reasons:
- Irritation. The carbonation and high acidity can make inflammation worse at the site of the extraction.
- Sugar. The large amount of sugar in soda can increase bacteria levels in the mouth for a higher risk of infection.
- Dry socket. The carbonation in soda could dislodge the blood clot that forms in the socket after a tooth extraction, resulting in a condition called dry socket.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Extraction
Does drinking from a straw cause dry socket?
You should avoid drinking from a straw for at least a week after a tooth extraction, or 2 weeks to be safe. Using a straw can dislodge the blood clot in the socket, resulting in dry socket.
What should I drink instead of soda?
If you want to drink something other than water, consider non-acidic fruit juices with no sugar added. Iced tea is another non-carbonated option, but opt for unsweet or low sugar.
Contact Progressive Periodontics and Implant Dentistry
If you’re in need of more information about what to eat or drink after a tooth extraction, or if you need to schedule a procedure, contact Progressive Periodontics and Implant Dentistry today.