Whether you’ve recently undergone oral surgery like wisdom tooth extraction or a root canal, it’s important to consume soft foods during your recovery. This article explores the finest soft foods to eat after oral surgery while providing you with some healthy recipes to try.
The Best Soft Foods for a Swift Recovery
If you’ve recently had a wisdom tooth removed, a root canal, or any other type of dental surgery, your dentist or oral surgeon may suggest a soft foods diet. These foods will help you nourish your body and promote faster healing. However, it’s crucial to note that most soft foods should not be served too hot, as they can impair your healing process. If you have any questions regarding the best foods for your recovery or specific dietary restrictions, consult your dentist or doctor.
Here are some of the best soft foods and recipes to eat after oral surgery or any dental procedure that impairs chewing:
1. Eggs
2. Mashed Potatoes
3. Oatmeal
4. Smoothies
5. Tofu
6. Hummus
7. Meatloaf
8. Tuna
Low in calories and high in protein, tuna is an excellent choice for a soft food diet. Canned tuna, in particular, is easy to mash and can be added to scrambled eggs or mixed with mashed avocado or Greek yogurt for a simple and nutritious tuna salad. Alternatively, you can try these recipes for Healthy Tuna Pasta Salad or Salmon Salad with Mayo.
9. Deli Meats
Deli meats, such as sliced ham, bologna, chicken, and mortadella, are usually soft and easy to consume. They provide you with the flavor of unprocessed meat without the firm texture. However, avoid firmer deli meats like salami or pepperoni, as they may require more chewing.
10. Avocados
Avocados are a fantastic source of healthy fats and have a smooth and buttery texture. They are also rich in fiber, which can be beneficial when avoiding hard, solid foods. You can enjoy avocados in smoothies, mash them and mix them with flaked fish or finely chopped chicken, or even create a sugar-free, dairy-free ice cream by combining mashed avocado with mashed banana and freezing it. Check out these recipes for Creamy Avocado Spread or Avocado Chocolate Smoothie.
11. Fish
Fish, especially oily varieties like sardines, mackerel, and salmon, have a naturally soft texture once cooked. They are high in protein and offer the additional benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. You can create a simple fish pie by combining different types of fish in a white or cheese sauce and topping it with creamy mashed potatoes. Alternatively, try these recipes for Instant Pot Salmon and Rice or Air Fryer Salmon.
12. Pasta
Pasta requires minimal chewing and offers a wide variety of options to prevent boredom. You can mix cooked pasta with pesto or a delicious cheesy sauce. Additionally, look for pre-made ravioli or tortellini with soft fillings, which do not require heavy chewing. Try these recipes for Dairy-Free Pesto Pasta, Gluten-Free Pasta Salad, or Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta Copycat.
13. Popsicles
Popsicles are not only easy to eat but also soothing after dental work. Avoid store-bought options that are high in sugars and artificial ingredients. Instead, make your own popsicles using pureed fruits and sugar-free juices. You can use naturally sweet fruits to ensure your popsicles taste great while being good for you. Try these recipes for Banana Popsicles, Cherry Coconut Popsicles, Mango Popsicles, or Pomegranate Lime Popsicles.
14. Ice Cream or Milkshakes
Following a soft food diet gives you the perfect opportunity to indulge in delicious ice cream or create delightful milkshakes. You can even add pureed fruits to your ice cream for added vitamins and minerals. Give these recipes a try: Coconut Shake, Chocolate Peanut Butter Ice Cream, Dairy-Free Mango Ice Cream, or Vegan Peach Ice Cream.
15. Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese, packed with protein and boasting a delicate flavor, can be combined with sweet or savory ingredients. Mix it with tuna or smoked salmon for a satisfying lunch or blend it to achieve a texture similar to Greek yogurt. If you find the curds unappealing, you can also try soft and easy-to-eat ricotta cheese.
16. Pudding
The custard-like texture of pudding makes it effortlessly enjoyable. You can choose from various flavors, including instant pudding powders or healthy homemade versions by blending bananas with peanut butter, oats, and flavorings like cocoa powder and vanilla. Check out this article on how to substitute milk in instant pudding.
17. Cooked Carrots
Carrots are a nutrient-rich choice, providing a substantial amount of vitamin A. While boiling them until soft is an option, steaming or baking them with a touch of lemon juice and thyme enhances their natural sweetness. Explore these recipes for Instant Pot Carrots, Instant Pot Potatoes and Carrots, or Mini Carrots in Air Fryer.
18. Ripe Bananas
Ripe bananas make for a perfect snack any time of the day and are high in fiber, promoting a feeling of fullness. Enjoy them as they are or mix them with tart fruits like stewed rhubarb to create a delicious contrast. Discover more gluten-free and dairy-free snack ideas.
19. Baby Food
Commercial baby food offers ready-made options for a soft food diet. Nowadays, baby food flavors have become sophisticated and diverse. Look for stage 3 baby foods that provide some texture and a wider variety of ingredients if you prefer less smooth purees.
20. Guacamole
Delicious guacamole, made from mashed avocados, lime or lemon juice, and a touch of salt, is a versatile topping. You can add red onion, chili, tomato, and cilantro for extra flavor. If desired, finely chop or puree all the ingredients together.
21. Refried Beans
Contrary to their name, refried beans are not cooked twice but rather well-fried beans. They are wholesome and hearty, available in cans or as a homemade option. Top a fried egg with refried beans and grated cheese or homemade guacamole for a tasty and satisfying meal.
22. Sweet Potatoes
Preparing whole sweet potatoes is as easy as baking them until soft. Fill a split, baked sweet potato with scrambled eggs and mashed avocado for a savory meal. Alternatively, top it with sliced banana and drizzle a little warm smooth peanut butter for a decadent treat. Check out these recipes for Instant Pot Sweet Potatoes.
23. Baked Beans
Baked beans are a protein-rich and satisfying option. Stir in grated cheese until melted or mix them with finely sliced frankfurters for added zest. While canned baked beans are convenient, making your own allows you to control the amount of sugar.
24. Ripe Mango
Luscious and juicy mangoes are packed with vitamin C and offer a natural sweetness that feels like a treat. Enjoy mangoes as they are, blend them into smoothies, caramelize them on the grill and top with ice cream, or even use them to add a fruity twist to soups.
If you are still looking for ideas on the best foods to eat after wisdom teeth removal or dental implants, here are some additional suggestions:
- Soft bread
- Bone broth
- Soft fruit like mashed ripe banana or strawberries
- Mashed peas
- Soft cheeses like goat cheese
- Jello
Foods to Avoid After Oral Surgery
It is important to avoid foods that are difficult to chew, such as steaks, chops, and dry, crumbly foods like cookies, potato chips, popcorn, pretzels, bagels, and crusty bread. Citrus juices or highly-spiced foods may also cause discomfort. Additionally, it is recommended to completely avoid alcohol after oral surgery.
FAQs About Soft Foods
My Experience
As someone who has undergone multiple dental surgeries, including wisdom teeth extraction, fillings, crowns, and root canals, and has also assisted my husband during his recovery from tooth extraction, I understand the discomfort and challenges associated with oral surgery. While modern dentistry has made these procedures almost pain-free, recovery times can vary, requiring individuals to follow a soft food diet for several weeks. For complex surgeries, recovery times may be longer. It is essential to communicate with your healthcare provider about any complications you experience, such as swelling, pain, or bleeding. During my own recoveries, I relied on nutrient-dense foods like smoothies and blended soups, avoiding sugary and processed foods to promote healing.
More Clean Eating Kitchen Favorites
- Clean Eating Food List
- Instant Pot Boiled Potatoes
- Chicken Sweet Potato
Conclusions
Although the idea of a restricted soft food diet may seem daunting, there are plenty of delicious options available to you. Focus on including protein-rich foods in your meals to aid in quicker healing. Ensure that all foods are comfortably warm, rather than hot, to avoid discomfort. If you enjoyed this post, consider following me on social media platforms like Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and YouTube!
About the Author: Carrie Forrest, a highly-regarded wellness and food blogger, holds a master’s degree in public health with a specialization in nutrition. Her website receives nearly 10 million annual visitors. Carrie shares her incredible story of recovery from chronic illness and is passionate about helping other women transform their health. Find out more about Carrie via the contact form on her website.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations based on your individual situation.
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