After tooth extraction, choose foods that require little chewing and will not damage the wound. You do not need to go hungry for days: adequate fluids and nutrition also support healing.
When can you first eat?
Wait until the numbness has worn off and bleeding has stopped. This reduces the risk of biting your lip or tongue. Do not eat or drink with gauze in your mouth. Follow the instructions given at your clinic if they differ from this general advice.
What should you choose in the first few days?
Good options include lukewarm smooth soup, mashed potatoes, soft egg dishes, bananas, well-cooked pasta and steamed vegetables. Take small mouthfuls and, where possible, chew on the other side. Drink water regularly from a glass, without a straw.
Avoid hot food and drinks, hard bread crusts, crisps, popcorn and small seeds. Spicy or acidic foods may sting the wound. Return to your normal diet gradually, according to your comfort.
Dairy products, coffee and alcohol
A general ban on pasteurised dairy products is not necessary after a simple extraction. Plain, seed-free yoghurt can be eaten as a soft food if you tolerate it and your dentist has not instructed otherwise. Dairy can affect the absorption of certain medicines; follow the medicine leaflet where applicable.
Do not drink coffee hot; on the first day, water is a better choice. Avoid alcohol for at least 48 hours and check for interactions if you are taking medication. Some medicines require a longer alcohol-free period.
What if food gets near the wound?
Do not pick it out with a toothpick, finger or toothbrush. Do not rinse during the first 24 hours. After that, a gentle, warm salt-water mouth bath can be used. If something continues to bother you or pain increases, arrange a dental review.
Individual surgical instructions take priority, especially after bone grafting, immediate implant placement or closure of an opening into the sinus.
If the extraction involves a wisdom tooth, read more about wisdom tooth surgery .
For related advice on recovery and symptoms, see essential tooth extraction aftercare and swelling and healing after tooth extraction .
Clinical sources: Kingston NHS – eating and aftercare ; UCLH – soft foods after extraction .