Getting your teeth extracted and then adjusting to dentures can make eating feel challenging at first. Your mouth needs time to heal, and your dentures will take some getting used to. During this transition, choosing the right foods can help you recover comfortably and avoid unnecessary irritation.
To make things easier for you, we’ve put together a guide on what to eat after tooth extraction and denture placement, along with practical tips for stress-free meals.
First 24-48 Hours
Right after tooth extraction and getting dentures, your gums will be tender. So, stick to very soft, cool, or lukewarm foods that don’t require chewing. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that could irritate the healing area.
Good Choices:
- Broth-based soups (not too hot)
- Mashed potatoes
- Applesauce
- Yogurt
- Pudding or gelatin
- Blended smoothies
- Oatmeal or cream of wheat
Avoid:
- Hot coffee or tea
- Crunchy snacks (chips, nuts, popcorn)
- Spicy or acidic foods
- Alcohol and carbonated drinks
First Week of Recovery
As your mouth starts healing, you can introduce slightly thicker foods. Still, keep things soft to avoid putting pressure on your gums or dentures.
Good Choices:
- Scrambled eggs
- Soft pasta or noodles (cut into small pieces)
- Cottage cheese or ricotta
- Soft-cooked vegetables
- Flaky fish or shredded chicken
- Bananas or ripe avocados
Avoid:
- Tough meats
- Sticky foods (caramel, chewing gum)
- Hard bread or toast
After the First Week
By now, your gums should feel better, but your dentures might still feel uncomfortable. Take your time getting used to them while slowly reintroducing firmer foods.
Good Choices:
- Ground meat or tender cuts
- Soft fruits
- Well-cooked rice or quinoa
- Soft sandwiches
- Steamed or roasted vegetables
Chewing Tips for New Denture Wearers
- Cut your food into small pieces
- Chew slowly and evenly on both sides
- Avoid biting hard with your front teeth
Long-Term Eating with Dentures
Once fully adjusted, you can eat most foods, but some may always be tricky. Sticky, hard, or very chewy foods might still cause problems.
Easier Options for Daily Meals:
- Omelets or soft cheeses
- Casseroles or stews
- Soft grains like couscous or polenta
- Soups with soft vegetables and protein
Foods to Be Cautious With:
- Nuts and seeds
- Tough bagels or hard bread
- Corn on the cob (cut kernels off instead)
- Chewy candy or dried fruit
The Bottom Line
Eating after tooth extraction and denture placement doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right foods and a little patience, you’ll be back to enjoying meals in no time!
If you have any questions about dentures or need advice, the knowledgeable team at Foundation Family Dentistry is here to assist you. We offer expert denture placement and compassionate care to make sure your transition to dentures goes as smoothly as possible.
Call us at (281) 251-3070 to book your appointment!