Category: Wisdom Teeth Surgery

How to Speed Up Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Extraction: Tips from Dental Experts

Wisdom teeth extraction is one of the most common oral surgeries—especially for young adults. While the procedure itself is routine, the recovery process plays a major role in how quickly you bounce back. At Metro City Dentistry, we believe that patient education and proactive care can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and speedy recovery.

If you’ve recently had your wisdom teeth removed—or have a procedure coming up—follow these expert tips to heal faster, avoid complications, and get back to feeling like yourself.

  1. Follow Post-Op Instructions Carefully

The first step toward a quick recovery is listening to your dentist or oral surgeon. After your procedure, you’ll be given a set of post-operative instructions that outline everything from medication timing to cleaning techniques.

Expert Tip: Don’t skip or guess. If you’re unclear about any part of your post-op care plan, contact Metro City Dentistry right away for clarification.

  1. Manage Bleeding and Swelling the Right Way

It’s normal to experience some bleeding and swelling in the first 24 hours. Here’s how to manage it effectively:

  • Bleeding: Bite down gently on gauze pads and change them as directed. Keep your head elevated and avoid spitting or rinsing for the first few hours to prevent dislodging the blood clot.
  • Swelling: Apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek in 15-minute intervals for the first day. After 24 hours, switch to a warm compress if needed.

Why It Matters: Reducing inflammation early on can significantly shorten your recovery time and reduce pain.

  1. Stick to a Soft Food Diet

Your mouth will be tender after surgery, and chewing tough foods can slow down healing or even cause complications like dry socket. Choose soft, nutrient-rich foods that are easy to eat without disturbing the extraction site.

Ideal foods include:

  • Mashed potatoes
  • Yogurt
  • Applesauce
  • Smoothies (avoid using straws!)
  • Scrambled eggs
  • Broths and soups (not too hot)

Avoid hard, spicy, crunchy, or sticky foods for at least a week or until your dentist advises otherwise.

  1. Avoid Using Straws or Smoking

Suction from straws or smoking can dislodge the blood clot that forms in the socket, leading to a dry socket—a painful condition that delays healing.

Pro Tip: Stay away from tobacco and straws for at least 5 to 7 days post-surgery.

  1. Keep Your Mouth Clean—But Gently

Oral hygiene is essential during recovery, but you’ll need to be gentle to avoid irritating the extraction site.

  • Brush your teeth carefully, avoiding the surgical areas.
  • Rinse with warm salt water starting 24 hours after surgery (no vigorous swishing).
  • Avoid mouthwash with alcohol during the healing period.

At Metro City Dentistry, we sometimes provide a special medicated rinse to help keep the site clean and promote healing. Ask us if it’s right for you.

  1. Stay on Top of Pain and Medication

You may be prescribed pain medication, antibiotics, or anti-inflammatories. Take them as directed—don’t wait until the pain becomes unbearable.

Quick Tip: Set alarms for medication times so you maintain consistent pain control and reduce inflammation.

  1. Get Plenty of Rest

Your body needs energy to heal, so give yourself permission to rest. Avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and intense exercise for at least 3 to 5 days after surgery.

Good to Know: Physical exertion can increase blood pressure and worsen swelling or bleeding.

  1. Watch for Warning Signs

While mild discomfort is normal, certain symptoms may indicate a problem:

  • Severe or worsening pain after 3–4 days
  • Persistent bleeding beyond 24 hours
  • Foul taste or odor from the mouth
  • Fever or chills
  • Swelling that doesn’t improve

If you experience any of these, contact Metro City Dentistry immediately. We have four convenient clinics around GTA to accommodate you anytime.

Your Recovery Partner: Metro City Dentistry

Every patient heals at a slightly different pace, but with proper care, most people feel significantly better within a week. At Metro City Dentistry, we’re here to support you before, during, and after your wisdom teeth extraction. Whether you need personalized aftercare advice or a follow-up appointment, our friendly dental team is just a call away.

Have questions about wisdom teeth removal or want to book a consultation? Contact us today—we’re committed to helping you smile through every stage of your dental journey.

8 Foods You Can Eat After Wisdom Teeth Surgery

Getting surgery on wisdom teeth is one of the most common dental procedures among young adults. In Canada, over 200,000 wisdom tooth extractions are performed every year — often as a preventive measure to avoid crowding, infection, or damage to nearby teeth.

Choosing the right foods can ease discomfort, promote healing, and help you avoid complications like dry socket or infection. Let’s explore the 8 best foods to eat after wisdom teeth surgery and why they’re perfect for your recovery diet.

Wisdom Teeth Surgery

Why Your Post-Surgery Diet Matters

After teeth extraction, your mouth is sensitive, swollen, and healing. Eating hard, spicy, or crunchy foods can cause pain, bleeding, or even reopen the surgical site. Soft, nutrient-rich meals are essential to support healing and keep you energized.

  1. Smoothies – Nutrient-Packed and Easy to Swallow

Smoothies are a post-op favorite. They’re cold (which helps with swelling), packed with vitamins, and easy to consume without chewing. Try blending bananas, berries, spinach, and Greek yogurt for a healing boost.

⚠️ Avoid using a straw, as suction can dislodge the blood clot and lead to dry socket — a painful condition following wisdom tooth extraction.

  1. Mashed Potatoes – Comfort Food for a Healing Mouth

Creamy mashed potatoes are ideal after teeth extraction. They’re soft, filling, and gentle on sore gums. Plus, they’re full of carbs to give your body energy during recovery.

If you’re healing from Teeth Removal Treatment in Brampton, mashed potatoes are one of the easiest and most satisfying meals to enjoy.

  1. Applesauce – Sweet, Soft, and Full of Antioxidants

Applesauce is a simple, healthy treat that’s perfect for your post-surgery diet. It’s rich in fiber and antioxidants and doesn’t require any chewing.

This is especially helpful if you’re combining wisdom tooth removal with Invisalign dental treatment, as it keeps pressure off your teeth and gums.

  1. Yogurt – Cooling, Creamy, and Full of Probiotics

Yogurt (especially Greek yogurt) is soft, soothing, and full of probiotics that aid digestion and boost immunity. This is important, particularly if you’re on antibiotics after your procedure.

Add a bit of honey or fruit puree for flavor, but avoid chunky toppings that might irritate your mouth after surgery on wisdom teeth.

  1. Pudding and Jell-O – Gentle Sweets That Go Down Easy

When you’re craving something sweet during recovery, pudding and Jell-O are excellent choices. They’re smooth, satisfying, and won’t stress your healing gums.

While they don’t offer much nutrition, they’re a nice comfort food during the first few days of healing after wisdom tooth extraction.

  1. Broth-Based Soups – Hydrating and Nutrient-Rich

Warm (not hot) broth-based soups like chicken or vegetable broth are gentle and packed with nutrients. They keep you hydrated and nourished without requiring chewing.

As your recovery progresses, you can add soft noodles or finely chopped veggies. These soups are an essential part of any oral surgery recovery diet.

  1. Scrambled Eggs – Protein-Packed and Soft on the Jaw

Eggs are one of the most healing-friendly foods after wisdom teeth removal. Scrambled eggs are soft, rich in protein, and easy to customize.

Protein is vital for tissue repair, making eggs an ideal choice for those recovering from Teeth Removal Treatment in Brampton or other dental procedures.

  1. Oatmeal or Cream of Wheat – Gentle Fiber for Fullness

A bowl of well-cooked oatmeal or cream of wheat is warm, easy to eat, and full of fiber. It’s a comforting choice once you’re a couple of days into healing.

You can mix in applesauce or mashed banana for added nutrients. If you’re working with an affordable dentist in Mississauga, they’ll likely recommend this as a nutritious breakfast option post-extraction.

Foods to Avoid After Surgery

Knowing what not to eat is just as important as knowing what’s safe. Avoid the following:

  • Crunchy or hard foods (chips, nuts)

  • Spicy items

  • Acidic juices

  • Sticky candies or gum

  • Hot drinks and foods

  • Using a straw

These can delay healing or even cause complications following surgery on wisdom teeth.

Recovery Timeline: When to Eat Regular Foods Again

Most people can start introducing more solid foods within 5–7 days after wisdom tooth extraction, depending on how smoothly recovery goes. It’s important to listen to your body and follow your dentist’s advice.

If you’re unsure whether you’re healing properly, don’t hesitate to reach out to an affordable dentist in Mississauga or your local dental care provider.

Final Thoughts

After undergoing wisdom tooth extraction, it’s essential to care for your mouth with soft, soothing foods that promote healing and avoid irritation. From smoothies to scrambled eggs, the right food choices make your recovery faster and more comfortable.

If you’re planning a Teeth Removal Treatment in Brampton, managing post-op care, or even starting your Invisalign dental treatment, personalized dental support can make all the difference.

For expert care and gentle support, trust Metro City Dentistry — your local professionals committed to comfortable, compassionate dental solutions.