Posted

 at Riverside Dental Group.

FAQs on Tooth Extraction Nourishment

Q1. Do I need to avoid chewy foods after an extraction?

A1. Yes. Avoiding hard or sharp foods may be a no brainer, but when you hear that soft foods are a good plan, you may wonder about those that are particularly chewy. If you received local anesthesia during your extraction, there will be some residual numbness. Any food that causes you to chew before it will go down your throat will put you at risk for biting and injuring your cheeks, tongue, and/or gums. Large chunks of food can also get stuck in the extraction site, putting you at a higher risk for infection. Stick to liquids, jello, yogurt, smoothies, and things of that nature if possible to avoid these issues.

Q1. Can cold foods help reduce swelling?

A1. They certainly can’t hurt. Swelling is a natural occurrence after an extraction. Cold foods, such as ice cream and popsicles, are not only delicious and comforting, but they can help in reducing the natural inflammation that generally occurs in the first 24 hours or so. Cold causes the blood vessels to constrict. Beyond cold food choices, apply an ice pack to your cheek for 20 minute intervals every couple of hours in the first day, following extraction.

Q1. Should I avoid hot foods?

A1. Following the first twenty-four hours of recovery, your Riverside general dentists may recommend that you apply heat instead of cold to the affected area. Heat does the opposite of cold, causing the blood vessels to enlarge, allowing for fluid drainage. After the first day, swap your ice cream for warm soup, but be careful not to irritate the healing extraction site with any extreme heat.

Tooth Extractions from Riverside General Dentists

If you are in need of an extraction or consultation for any dental needs, schedule an appointment with your Riverside general dentists in our 92504 dentist office. You can contact us by calling (951) 689-5031. We welcome patients from Riverside and all neighboring communities.