If finding satisfying and soft snacks after oral surgery was challenging for you as it was for me, this blog post has you covered. I realized that sticking to a diet full of soft, nutrient-rich foods was crucial for a smooth recovery. If you’re going through a similar recovery process, here’s a list of 21 soft snacks that helped me heal comfortably.
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Why Soft Snacks After Oral Surgery Are Essential
Following dental surgery, especially procedures like wisdom teeth removal or dental implants, your mouth is sensitive. It’s essential to avoid chewy foods and raw vegetables that can irritate the surgical area. Soft snacks are a great option to ensure you get necessary nutrients like vitamin C and fatty acids, which are vital for healing without risking complications like blood clots.
Here’s a video from dentist Dr. Brett Langston that covers the topic about what to eat after implants — but read on for my epic list of snack ideas for most other forms of surgery.
21 Safe, Satisfying & Soft Snacks
If you are craving soft snacks after oral surgery, you can’t go wrong with these 21 snacks that I researched heavily on leading authority sites like the American Dental Association.
- Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is creamy, high in protein, and contains probiotics that support oral health and digestion. It’s gentle on your healing mouth and a great choice for your recovery diet. - Smoothies
Smoothies are a delicious option to pack in vitamins and nutrients without chewing. Blend soft fruits like bananas with unsweetened varieties of yogurt or protein shakes for a nutrient-rich treat. - Mashed Avocado
Avocado is full of healthy fats and has a creamy texture. It’s an excellent choice for soft foods after surgery, providing necessary nutrients without irritating the surgical site. - Applesauce
Unsweetened applesauce one of the best snacks after oral surgery. It is easy to swallow and rich in dietary fiber, making it a suitable snack during the crucial period of your recovery. - Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is soft and high in protein, pairing well with soft fruits. It’s a great way to meet your protein needs while healing. - Pudding
Pudding is a classic soft snack that satisfies your sweet tooth without the risks associated with harder, chewy foods. - Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are comforting and easy to eat, especially with added dairy products like butter or cream for extra calories. - Oatmeal
Instant oats or cream of wheat are warm, soft options that are gentle on your surgical area and can be flavored with mashed bananas or honey. - Hummus
Hummus is a smooth, protein-rich snack made from chickpeas. It’s a great option for providing essential nutrients without straining your mouth. - Scrambled Eggs
Scrambled eggs are fluffy, easy to chew, and packed with protein—perfect for the first days post-surgery. - Soft Cheese
Soft cheeses like Brie or cream cheese spread on soft bread are a good choice for a mild, satisfying snack. - Blended Soups
Creamy soups, like tomato or potato, are soothing and packed with nutrients. They’re an excellent choice for a warm, liquid meal during recovery. - Soft Tofu
Silken tofu is smooth, high in protein, and can be incorporated into various dishes for a nutritious soft food option. - Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Mashed sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and have a smooth texture, making them a good choice for soft foods after dental work. - Ice Cream or Frozen Yogurt
Ice cream and frozen yogurt are soothing, especially after wisdom tooth extraction or periodontal surgery. Choose low-sugar, healthier options to avoid excess sugar intake. - Bananas
Bananas are soft, easy to digest, and full of potassium, which is essential for muscle recovery during this healing period. - Custard
Custard is similar to pudding but slightly richer, providing a smooth, easy-to-eat snack that won’t irritate extraction sites. - Softened Rice
Cook rice until very soft and mix with broth for a gentle, easy-to-eat meal that provides necessary carbohydrates. - Gelatin
Gelatin is light, easy to eat, and a safe way to satisfy your sweet cravings during your recovery period. - Steamed Vegetables
Steamed vegetables like carrots or zucchini are soft and packed with essential vitamins, making them a suitable addition to your recovery diet. - Soft Protein Bars
Soft protein bars are convenient for on-the-go snacking and provide the protein needed for a successful recovery.
Healing Timeline After Oral Surgery
| Days Post-Surgery | Dietary Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Day of Surgery – Day 3 | Stick to liquids and pureed foods like smoothies and creamy soups to avoid irritating the surgical site. |
| Day 4 – Day 7 | Gradually introduce soft, easy-to-chew foods like those listed above. |
| Week 2 Onwards | Continue with soft foods but start introducing more solid options as tolerated to avoid complications. |
FAQs About Eating After Oral Surgery
Q: How long should I stick to soft snacks after oral surgery?
A: Typically, you should stick to soft foods for at least 7-10 days after surgery. However, this can vary based on the type of dental procedure you’ve undergone, such as wisdom tooth removal or dental implants. Always follow your dentist’s instructions.
Q: Can I drink through a straw after oral surgery?
A: It’s best to avoid using straws for the first week after surgery. The suction can dislodge blood clots at the surgical area, increasing the risk of dry socket. Instead, sip drinks directly from a cup.
Q: What foods should I avoid after oral surgery?
A: Avoid hard, crunchy, or acidic foods, as well as anything that requires extensive chewing. Foods like nuts, chips, and spicy foods can irritate the surgical area or get stuck in the wound. Stick to soft, recommended soft foods to ensure proper healing.
Q: When can I start eating solid foods again?
A: You can start introducing more solid foods gradually after the first week, depending on how well your mouth is healing. Start with softer solids like soft cheese and gradually work your way back to a normal diet.
Q: Are there any specific nutrients that help with recovery?
A: Yes, focus on nutrient-rich foods high in protein, vitamin C, and zinc. These nutrients support tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and boost your immune system, which is crucial for a speedy recovery.
Conclusion: Recovering with Comfort
Eating these snacks after oral surgery made a big difference in my recovery after oral surgery. They were easy to eat, satisfying, and gentle on my mouth. If you’re recovering from oral surgery, I hope this list gives you some ideas for snacks that will help you heal without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
By the way, if you want something more than just a snack, check out my blog post on 101 soft foods to eat after oral surgery and also 11 Soft Diet Recipes After Oral Surgery. This contains some breakfast, lunch, and dinner ideas as well as snacks, and even dessert!
References
- American Dental Association. “Soft Food Diet Recommendations After Oral Surgery.” Available at: https://www.ada.org/
- Mayo Clinic. “Tooth Extraction Aftercare.” Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/wisdom-tooth-extraction/about/pac-20395268
