In this brief guide, we will answer the question, “Can you eat ice cream after tooth extraction?” with an in-depth analysis of the effects of eating ice cream after tooth extraction.
Read on to know more about the foods to consume and foods to avoid after tooth extraction.
Can you eat ice cream after tooth extraction?
Yes, you can eat ice cream after a tooth extraction, in fact, doctors recommend eating ice cream as part of the recovery process. Ice cream helps to minimize the swelling that occurs after tooth removal.
If you do not have sensitive teeth, ice cream should be among the primary things to reach out for after getting a tooth pulled. Even the most sensitive mouths can handle ice cream as it is both a soft and cold food. It is so cold that it can usually efficiently decrease inflammation of the gums that occurs after the tooth extraction.
Soft serve ice cream is the most suitable option. However, it should be kept in mind to thoroughly clean the mouth out after eating to avoid any sugar accumulation and avoid any sprinkles and candy toppings.
The effects of eating ice cream after tooth extraction
Cold food eaten after getting the tooth pulled aids to reduce the swelling and to prevent the gums from bleeding that occurs after the tooth extraction. It also relieves the pain that is caused by tooth removal.
Dentists go for removing teeth either because the distance between the teeth has lessened or the teeth have decayed. Nevertheless, in each case, after the surgery, the gums will inflame causing pain, and also making it hard for you to perform routine activities.
Doctors often prescribe medications for controlling the pain. But, swelling needs cold compression for which most of the dentists advise eating ice cream. Having ice cream after oral surgery relaxes the gums and makes you comfortable.
Swelling is the highest at the first 24 hours and slows down gradually with time. Putting an ice pack is another treatment to relieve swelling. However, eating ice cream hits straight at the site of surgery.
Another reason why doctors recommend eating ice cream is that following tooth removal, solid food will be harder to chew and will cause discomfort. As ice cream is a creamy food, it will not hurt the gums or the adjacent teeth. Moreover, since ice cream does not require chewing; hence, there is no risk of damaging the surgery site.
Other foods to eat after a tooth extraction
Besides ice cream, other foods to consume after a tooth extraction include:
Cold soup
Cold soup, served either cool or lukewarm, is a good option following a tooth extraction.
Not only because it is smooth to ingest after getting a tooth pulled, but it is often loaded with nutrients and protein that help in healing. Be sure to take a soup that is as soft as it can be to avoid any trouble.
Scrambled eggs
Scrambled eggs are a good choice after tooth extraction not only because they are loaded with nutrients but also soft and demand very limited chewing. Just be sure to let the eggs cool sufficiently before you have them.
Smoothies
Fruit smoothies are one of the best sources to get the daily dose of nutrients after getting a tooth pulled. You can mix fruits with yoghurt to enrich the smoothie with probiotics, calcium, and protein. Adding dairy to the smoothie also decreases the acids from the fruit, making it less possible to hurt the gums while they undergo healing.
What not to eat after a tooth extraction
Spicy and acidic foods
Spicy foods can irritate the gums and mouth. And because irritation is the last thing you would want while your mouth is healing, it is most helpful to control your cravings until your dentist allows you to enjoy your favourite spices. Similar to spicy foods, acidic foods can also irritate the mouth after oral surgery and should not be eaten.
Crunchy snacks
Throughout the first week following the tooth extraction, do not go near the crunchy snacks. Not only are they hard to chew with a sore mouth, but pieces of them will get into the socket. Cling to soft foods till your dentist instructs you contrarily.
Straws and other concerns
It is highly not recommended to use a straw right after tooth extraction as it causes a sucking motion that can increase the risk of resulting in a dry socket. To avoid these complexities, it is more helpful to take small sips of cool drinks following a tooth extraction, without using a straw.
Other FAQs about Ice cream that you may be interested in.
Can you eat ice cream while on your period?
Can you eat ice cream when you have the flu?
Can you eat ice cream while pregnant?
Conclusion
In this brief guide, we have answered the question, “Can you eat ice cream after a tooth extraction?” with an in-depth analysis of the effects of eating ice cream after tooth extraction. We have also discussed the foods to consume and foods to avoid after tooth extraction.
