Warning Signs of Impacted Wisdom Teeth & Types of Foods You Can Eat After You Have Had Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

95% of all adults grow a third set of molars between the ages of 17 and 25. If you’re over 18 and wondering where your wisdom teeth are, you might be one of the lucky five percent. Then again, you might be dealing with impacted wisdom teeth and not even know it.

It’s important to tend to impacted wisdom teeth before they present a serious problem. Left untreated, they can lead to infection, an abscess or even teeth erupting sideways through your gums.

If you notice any of the following warning signs, your wisdom teeth may be impacted. Make an appointment with your dentist for an X-ray and examination.

Gums Are Red or Swollen At The Back of Your Jaw

Red or swollen gums are a sign of inflammation. If the redness persists and the swelling doesn’t appear to go down after a week, there’s a chance something is wrong.

Tender Gums

Tender or sensitive gums behind your second row of molars may be an indication that new teeth are trying to erupt but are having trouble getting through.

Many patients’ mouths simply aren’t large enough for a third row of molars and so this final tooth can become wedged between the bone and the adjacent tooth.

Jaw Pain or Swelling

Impacted wisdom teeth can be painful. The pain may arise only when chewing or be present at all times. Look in the mirror to see if your jaw is visibly swollen from the outside.

Bad Breath or An Unpleasant Taste in Your Mouth

Bad breath that refuses to go away even after repeated brushing, flossing and gargling can be a sign of infection in your mouth. If the bad breath is coupled with an unpleasant taste, see a dental professional as soon as possible. An infection below the gum line is a potentially serious condition that needs to be treated right away.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth Require Extraction

If your dentist confirms that you do have impacted wisdom teeth, they often will recommend they be extracted before they become problematic. If left to continue pushing into your mouth, impacted wisdom teeth may damage nearby teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth typically will be removed by an oral surgeon.

Four Types of Foods You Can Eat After You Have Had Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

About 90% of people need to get their wisdom teeth removed. If you are a part of that 90%, you might be wondering what the steps are post-surgery. Taking it easy and getting a lot of rest is a key step to a quick recovery. Another big step is knowing what you can and can’t eat.

Here is a list of foods you can indulge in post-surgery.

Ice Cream:

After having a minor surgery, it’s okay to treat yourself with a little sweet. The coolness will not only feel good, but it will also help sooth inflamed tissue. Try to avoid eating cones and flavors of ice cream with large chunks in them like chocolate chips and nuts.

Soup:

Soup is a great food to have on hand after your surgery. It provides protein and the broth is easy to eat. If you choose this brothy goodness, make sure you aren’t eating large pieces of vegetables and the temperature of the soup isn’t too hot.

Mashed Potatoes:

Not only are mashed potatoes delicious, but they are easy to make and they really are the perfect post-surgery food. You can smother them with gravy, butter or sour cream. Top the meal with whatever sounds good to you, but make sure there aren’t large potato chunks you’ll have to chew. Another route you could take is mashed sweet potato. Top it with butter and cinnamon to take this savory treat to sweet!

Smoothies (No Straws):

Smoothies are a great source to get all the nutrients your body will need. You can make different flavors with fruits and vegetables. Prepack your smoothie packs before you have your surgery so all you have to do is blend and enjoy. You could also add in different protein powders or vitamins to help your body. If you choose to make a smoothie, DO NOT USE A STRAW. Sucking on a straw could disrupt your healing process and create dry sockets.

These are just a few ideas of what you can eat post-surgery. There are a ton of other options. Get creative and indulge in the snacks you wouldn’t normally eat for your main course. If you have any hesitations or questions on what you can’t and can eat, call our office. We are happy to answer any questions you may have. Indianapolis Office Phone Number 317-790-2555