Just had a tooth extracted? Ouch! While you're healing, your diet plays a crucial role in preventing complications and promoting recovery. So, what *can* you eat? Think soft, bland, and easy to chew.
**The Good Stuff:**
* **Liquids:** Smoothies (without seeds!), broth, yogurt (no granola).
* **Soft Foods:** Mashed potatoes, applesauce, scrambled eggs, well-cooked pasta. Think baby food consistency, but with more flavor!
**The Avoid-at-all-Costs List:**
* **Crunchy & Hard Foods:** Chips, nuts, popcorn – anything that can irritate the extraction site.
* **Spicy Foods:** Can cause inflammation and pain.
* **Small Foods:** Rice and seeds can get trapped in the socket.
* **Hot Foods & Drinks:** Can increase bleeding.
* **Alcohol & Carbonated Drinks:** Hinder healing.
**Bonus Tip:** Gently rinse your mouth with saltwater after each meal to keep the area clean. Happy healing!
