- Fight nausea by eating. This helps offset the strong pain medication you're taking. Ensure you eat a little something several times a day, even if you don't feel like it.
- For the first day or two after surgery, stick to liquids and very soft foods. However, do not use a straw; the suction can cause dry sockets in your mouth. Try applesauce, warm broth, pudding, yogurt, mashed potatoes or nutritional shakes--nothing too hot or cold. As you start to feel better, try foods that require minimal chewing, such as eggs, hummus, noodle soup or instant oatmeal. Soft tacos may be a good next step.
- Tough or crunchy foods should be avoided until you feel completely recovered from the surgery. Ask your oral surgeon for more specific advice. You should be back to normal within about two weeks.
- Make sure you get enough water. In addition to keeping you hydrated, it helps clean out your mouth and prevent food particles from getting into your stitches. If you're sensitive to cold liquids, try drinking water at room temperature. Alcohol should be avoided if you are taking narcotics.