What are the Foods That Promote Healing After Oral Surgery? A Guide to Post-Surgery

Oral surgery deals with the surgical treatment of conditions and disorders affecting the mouth, jaws, and face. It can encompass many procedures, from simple extractions to complex jaw reconstruction.

While most people associate oral surgery in Stockton with wisdom teeth removal, this is just one example of the type of procedure that falls under this umbrella. Other common oral surgery procedures include dental implants, jaw repositioning (orthognathic surgery), and biopsies.

Oral surgeons are highly trained dental specialists who have completed additional years of schooling beyond dental school. They are adept at diagnosing and treating various complex conditions affecting the mouth, jaws, and face. If you require oral surgery, visit the dental office in Stockton, CA, for assistance.

Foods That Promote Healing After Oral Surgery

Your diet greatly affects how quickly you recover from oral surgery. What you eat can affect your energy levels, how well your wounds heal, and your risk for infection.

That’s why choosing foods that promote healing after oral surgery is important. In general, you want to eat foods that are:

• Yogurt contains probiotics that can help fight infection and speed up healing. Choose plain yogurt or Greek yogurt for the best results.
• Honey has antibacterial properties that prevent infection and speed up healing.
• Oatmeal is easy on the stomach and provides nutrients that can help heal. Avoid instant oatmeal as it often contains sugar or other additives.
• Clear soup provides hydration and nutrients without irritating the surgical area. Chicken soup is especially beneficial as it contains an amino acid, which helps thin mucus and makes it easier for the body to heal wounds.
• Protein is essential for wound healing. Eat chicken, fish, tofu, legumes, and eggs.
• Foods high in zinc are essential for healing. Zinc plays a role in cell growth and tissue repair. Eat zinc-rich foods like oysters, pork chops, pumpkin seeds, and yogurt.
• Vitamin C helps your body produce collagen, vital for wound healing. Eat plenty of vitamin C-rich foods like oranges, grapefruits, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli.
• Avoid foods low in sugar. Sugar can promote inflammation and delay healing. Avoid sugary drinks, desserts, and refined carbs like white bread and pasta.
•  Healthy fats help reduce inflammation and promote cell regeneration. Eat healthy fats like avocados, olive oil, nuts, and seeds.
• Vitamin A is vital for cell growth and differentiation. It helps wounds heal and tissue repair.
• Vitamin C, an antioxidant, helps the body fight infection and promote healing. Vitamin E is another antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and supports tissue repair.

Post-Surgery Dietary Needs

Here are some general guidelines for post-surgery dietary needs:

1. Drink plenty of fluids. It is essential to stay hydrated after surgery. Drink 8-10 glasses of water or other clear fluids each day. You can also drink sugar-free sports drinks to replenish electrolytes.
2. Eat high-protein foods. Protein is essential for wound healing. Include lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, tofu, eggs, and nuts. Aim for at least 60 grams of protein per day.
3. Choose easily digestible foods. After surgery, your digestive system may be slower than usual. To avoid discomfort and constipation, choose soft, bland foods that are easy to chew and swallow. Good options include oatmeal, toast, soup, applesauce, and mashed potatoes.
4. Avoid spicy and fatty foods. Spicy and fatty foods can irritate your digestive system and cause indigestion or heartburn. Avoid them or eat them in small amounts only occasionally.

Which foods to Avoid After Oral Surgery?

You should avoid certain foods after oral surgery to prevent discomfort and promote healing. These include:

• Hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could irritate your surgical site
• Hot foods and beverages that could burn your healing tissues
• Very cold foods and beverages that could cause sensitivity
• Acidic fruits and juices that could delay healing
• Salty foods that could increase swelling

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Morada Dental & Orthodontics for more information about oral surgery healing and what to do to prevent complications.