Tooth extractions can be necessary for many reasons—from a tooth infection to overcrowding. If your child needs a tooth extraction, the most important thing to remember is that you can trust your child’s paediatric dentist because they are specifically trained to be experts in children’s dentistry. Your child’s dentist will provide you with tailored advice following your child’s extraction, but some of the best foods to eat after a tooth extraction include:
- mashed potatoes
- creamy soups
- natural yogurt
- applesauce
- scrambled eggs
With proper care, the healing process of a tooth extraction can be smooth and relatively quick. A critical part of this recovery for adults or children is maintaining a healthy diet. The difference is that it is up to us as parents to ensure our children eat food that fuels their recovery.
Is a Paediatric Tooth Extraction Different from an Adult’s?
Paediatric extractions differ from adult procedures because children’s dental needs and healing capabilities vary. Children often heal more quickly but require special care to ensure their comfort. A paediatric dentist’s expertise ensures that your child receives the unique care their developing teeth and gums need.
Paediatric dentists also emphasize using appropriate levels of anaesthesia and child-friendly methods to make the experience as stress-free as possible.
Foods to Avoid After Tooth Extraction
Before we dive into an ideal menu for your child over the next several days and weeks, we will review a few things to avoid—the list of foods your child can eat is much larger.
Steering clear of the following things helps keep the extraction site protected and your child’s experience as positive as possible:
- hard foods like nuts and popcorn
- sticky foods like chewing gum or caramels
- crunchy snacks like chips and crackers
- highly acidic foods like citrus fruits
- excessively hot or spicy foods
- carbonated drinks like soda
Best Foods to Eat After Tooth Extraction
Providing nourishing yet gentle foods for your child is key to their recovery. The focus should be on soft textures and nutrient-rich options to support healing.
Soft, Nutrient-Dense Foods for the First Few Days
These foods will fuel your child’s body and help it heal while being gentle on a potentially sensitive mouth.
- mashed potatoes with added olive oil or butter for healthy fats
- creamy soups like tomato or pumpkin (served warm, not hot)
- natural yogurt, which is gentle on the gums and supports gut health
- applesauce with no added sugar for a sweet, nutritious treat
- scrambled eggs for soft texture and protein
Gradually Introduce Firmer Food
As your child’s mouth continues healing, you can begin adding slightly firmer foods to their diet. Keep monitoring their comfort to ensure the new foods are not affecting the healing process.
- soft pasta dishes with well-cooked vegetables
- steamed fish, which is both tender and nutritious
- smoothies with frozen fruits and spinach for added vitamins (avoid using straws, though)
Balanced Diet for Overall Health
A healthy diet will help the extraction site heal and support your child’s overall oral and physical health. Include plenty of vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and dairy products to create balance.
Practical Tips for Eating After Tooth Extraction
Depending on which tooth was extracted, your child may struggle with the new sensation in their mouth. But post-extraction eating does not have to be uncomfortable or stressful for you or your child. A few things you can try with your child to make mealtimes more manageable and more enjoyable during the healing include:
- use smaller utensils: tiny spoons or forkfuls reduce pressure on the mouth and make eating less daunting
- serve meals at a comfortable temperature: foods that are too hot or too cold can irritate the extraction site
- keep the focus on liquids initially: broths, water, or diluted fruit juices can help ensure your child stays hydrated when eating is difficult
- opt for fun presentation: smoothies served in a fun cup, or mashed potatoes shaped into funny designs can make food more appealing
- encourage chewing on the opposite side: if your child needs to chew, guiding them to the other side of their mouth helps avoid disturbing the extraction site
Good Food Is Only Part of Your Child’s Recovery
A proper diet plays an essential role in how quickly and effectively your child recovers from a tooth extraction. Choosing soft, nutritious foods that support healing and avoiding foods that hinder it is a great way to promote speedy recovery.
But nutrition is only part of the puzzle. Relying on your paediatric dentist’s expert knowledge of your child’s needs is essential. So, follow all of their aftercare instructions and keep all recommended dental appointments following the extraction.Contact our team at The Children’s Dental Centre if you have any questions or concerns regarding your child’s healing. One of our experienced dentists can offer tailored advice and examine our child’s mouth if needed.