Updated May 22nd, 2025
Typically, you’ll eat soft foods for the first 24 to 48 hours after wisdom tooth removal. Then, you’ll slowly add regular foods back into your diet. Of course, it’s different for everyone, so your Winston-Salem dentist will provide aftercare instructions, including when you should resume normal eating and chewing.
Best Foods to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal
We recommend the following types of foods to start with:
- Mashed potatoes
- Low-fat yogurt
- Creamed soups
- Cream-of-Wheat
- Custard or Pudding
Foods and Habits to Avoid
To promote healing and prevent complications like dry socket, it's crucial to avoid:
- Smoking
- Drinking through a straw
- Spitting forcefully after rinsing
Instead, gently let the water or rinse flow from your mouth into the sink.
About Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth erupt late—years after your adult teeth. You should notice them in the late teens or early twenties at the back of the mouth.
They may erupt without incident, but sometimes they can be difficult, partially erupting and leaving you at risk for infection. Wisdom teeth can also press on other teeth, causing pain and oral health complications.
Your dentist will remove them if they are causing discomfort or putting your oral health at risk. These are not teeth you’ll miss; they serve no purpose.
Wisdom tooth removal may be straightforward or surgical. In either case, we ensure the area is fully anesthetized before starting work. If you need extra reassurance, talk to our team about sedation dentistry options.
Gentle, Comfortable Wisdom Tooth Removal in Winston-Salem, NC
If you notice pain or pressure at the back of your jaw, it may be a partially erupted or encroaching wisdom tooth. Contact a member of our dental team today to learn more or to book a consultation with the dentist.
We offer an exclusive membership plan to help make dentistry more affordable.