Can I Have Mac and Cheese After a Tooth Extraction?
As a kid, mac and cheese was my ultimate comfort food. I would inhale a bowl of it after a long day of playing outside or when I was feeling under the weather. So, when I had a tooth extraction a few years ago, one of my first thoughts was, “Can I have mac and cheese after a tooth extraction?”
The answer, unfortunately, is no. After a tooth extraction, it’s important to avoid eating hard or sticky foods that could dislodge the blood clot that forms in the socket where the tooth was removed. Mac and cheese is both soft and sticky, so it’s a no-go.
What to Eat After a Tooth Extraction
Soft Foods:
- Yogurt
- Oatmeal
- Mashed potatoes
- Pudding
- Applesauce
Cold Foods:
- Ice cream
- Popsicles
- Ice chips
- Cold soup
Liquids:
- Water
- Juice
- Smoothies
- Milk
Tips for Eating After a Tooth Extraction
- Avoid hot foods. Heat can increase swelling and pain.
- Chew on the opposite side of your mouth. This will help to avoid putting pressure on the extraction site.
- Cut your food into small pieces. This will make it easier to eat and avoid biting down on the extraction site.
- Be gentle when brushing your teeth. Avoid brushing the extraction site.
- Rinse your mouth with salt water. This will help to keep the extraction site clean and prevent infection.
FAQs
Q: How long does it take for the blood clot to form after a tooth extraction?
A: The blood clot usually forms within a few hours after the extraction.
Q: What are the signs of a dry socket?
A: Symptoms of a dry socket include severe pain, swelling, and a foul taste in the mouth.
Q: What should I do if I think I have a dry socket?
A: If you think you have a dry socket, call your dentist immediately.
Conclusion
Mac and cheese is a delicious and comforting food, but it’s not a good choice after a tooth extraction. Stick to soft, cold, and liquid foods until the blood clot has formed and the extraction site has healed.
Are you interested in learning more about tooth extractions? Leave a comment below and I’ll be happy to answer your questions.
