If you knew you were going to the hospital to have a minor surgery, you would make preparations beforehand so that your recovery at home goes as smoothly as possible. You would prepare your favorite place on the couch, have the remote ready with new batteries, and make sure the kitchen is stocked up with your favorite foods so that you don’t have to run out to the grocery store when you really don’t feel like leaving the house. And of course, if you are going to have a dental procedure you should prepare ahead of time as well! Here are some ideas for soft foods to get before your appointment.
Stock up on your favorite foods
After you’ve had a tooth pulled or another procedure, you may not really feel like eating at all. However, not eating will only make you feel worse! It is important to eat nutritious food that will help your body to heal and recover faster, and soft foods will ensure that you don’t reopen your wound.
Here are some ideas for foods to stock up on:
• Smoothies or milk shakes
• Cottage cheese
• Applesauce
• Jell-O
• Rice
• Scrambled eggs
• Polenta
• Grits
• Ice cream
• Broth or soup
• Mashed fruits or veggies – potatoes, avocados, and bananas, for example
• Tofu
• Oatmeal
• Yogurt
• Hummus
• Salmon
But, you should avoid these foods…
You should avoid chewy and crunchy foods after a dental procedure – they may reopen your wound and irritate your gums. You should also avoid seeds, grains, and nuts, which might get stuck in your wound. And, avoid spicy foods and alcohol, which might irritate your wound and gums. When your dentist says it is OK to eat solid foods again, make sure you start off slowly. Don’t start by eating a big bowl of popcorn or a big hamburger!
Make sure you’re prepared for your recovery after a dental procedure! Stock up on soft, healthy, tasty foods ahead of time so that you can relax without worrying about what to eat. If you are having dental pain, Hampton Dental Associates in Milwaukee can help. Call (414) 464-9021 for an appointment today!
