The directive to eat a soft food diet after oral surgery is well-known. But after surgery, many people feel like there is nothing they are allowed to eat other than milkshakes and oatmeal.
The good news is that many soft foods allow you to get the nutrients you need during the healing process after oral surgery. Here are just a few of the healthiest and most nutritious options for soft food after oral surgery:
Post Oral Surgery Foods: Dairy
Dairy products offer some protein and taste good as well, making them a good meal for breakfast or any time throughout the day.
Here are some options you can try after oral surgery:
- Yogurt: Try Greek or traditional varieties. Add cooked berries or other fruits to boost nutrition.
- Cottage cheese: This can be sweet or savory depending on how you serve it.
- Carbs soaked in milk: Cooked rice, cereal, and bread are all easier to eat after being soaked in milk.
- Eggs: Scrambled eggs are probably the easiest option, but you can add vegetables like greens and tomatoes to change up the flavor.
Fruits & Vegetables After Oral Surgery
Any vegetable or fruit boiled and then mashed is a great way to get the nutrients you need after oral surgery. For example, fresh applesauce made from boiling apples is far healthier and more nutritious than the store-bought kind — and it tastes better too.
Similarly, berries that have been allowed to simmer are naturally sweet. They can be poured over oatmeal to give the meal extra taste and nutrition.
Almost all vegetables — from greens to root vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots —can be baked or boiled until they are soft, and then mashed and buttered or seasoned to taste.
Smoothies are another great way to get nutrients into the body when you can’t eat hard foods, and they are tasty as well.
Get creative and add in a range of options to get variety in your diet, including these things:
- Protein powder: Chocolate or vanilla flavored protein powder can make your smoothie into a treat. Plain powders allow the flavors of the other ingredients to shine through.
- Spinach: Toss some in fruit smoothies, and you won’t be able to taste the spinach. You get extra nutrients without having to eat greens if you’re not a fan.
- Supplements: If you have supplements you need to take but don’t want to take a lot of pills or you’re having a hard time swallowing after surgery, you can usually crush them and put them into your smoothie as long as they are not time-released versions. Check with your doctor if you are attempting to take medication this way.
Soft Protein Options After Dental Surgery
Though you should avoid steaks and other hard-to-chew meats until you have healed, the following protein sources work well after dental surgery:
- Hummus
- Tofu
- Meatloaf
- Salmon and other fish
Schedule Your Oral Surgery Today
If you have been postponing oral surgery, don’t wait a day longer. Call Dison Family Dentistry now to schedule your appointment.