You might need a wisdom tooth extraction if one of your third set of molars is causing pain and discomfort. The wisdom teeth are the last set of teeth to emerge, and they typically show up somewhere between the ages of 17 to 25.
Extraction information
There is one wisdom tooth on both ends of each set of teeth. Their location makes them the most likely teeth to be impacted since most of the space in the person's mouth might be already taken up when they come out. Wisdom teeth are also susceptible to a variety of other things that can damage them like gum disease, tooth decay and infections. It is all caused by the fact these are the hardest set of teeth to clean and maintain. Such oral issues arise when plaque and bacteria are left to accumulate on them.
Many individuals choose to have their wisdom teeth removed to prevent these issues from developing. The extraction of a wisdom tooth does not negatively affect a person's health in any way since they are the only set of teeth that are not necessary. They are a relic of a past when humans consumed mostly plants.
The extraction of a wisdom tooth is classified as minor oral surgery, and it can take a week to recover from it entirely. The first couple of days are typically the most restrictive since the site of the extraction is yet to heal. Patients are advised to abstain from brushing, flossing and using a mouthwash during this period. The mouth should be gently rinsed with salt water after each meal to keep it clean.
Getting proper nutrition is essential during the recovery stage since it is needed to repair and rebuild damaged tissues in the mouth. A proper diet also helps to keep inflammation to a minimum. The foods one eats after a tooth extraction should be soft and easy to chew. They should be loaded with proteins, vitamins and minerals.
Two foods you can eat after a wisdom tooth extraction
Here are some nutrient-rich and easy-to-make meals patients can enjoy after a wisdom tooth has been extracted:
1. Soups
Blended products like pumpkin or tomato soup are safe for consumption after an extraction. There are no significant bits of meat or veggies that can get stuck in the socket of the extracted tooth, and they can be a great source of proteins and essential vitamins and minerals. Consuming soups also helps to keep the patient adequately hydrated, which speeds up the healing process.
Soups should be consumed warm and not hot to prevent it from irritating the sore extraction site. Any soups that contain chunks of an ingredient should be blended before consumption.
2. Yogurt
Yogurt is an outstanding source of protein, and most types are easy to eat. It usually comes with a creamy smooth texture that has a soothing effect. It helps to reduce pain and discomfort after an extraction. Yogurt also contains lots of minerals and vitamins like calcium, vitamin C and zinc.
The protein in the diet speeds up recovery. Studies show that those who consume low-protein foods after getting an extraction have longer recovery times.
Get more tips on recovering from an extraction
Stop by our Huntersville office or call us to learn more about meals you can eat after getting a wisdom tooth pulled.
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