Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure, often performed to alleviate pain, prevent overcrowding, or resolve other dental issues. There are a lot of questions that hover around our heads when we talk about wisdom teeth removal. One of the most common questions that people ask is, When can I eat chips after wisdom teeth removal? The truth is that you can eat chips whenever you feel comfortable after the surgery. However, it is suggested that you wait a few days after the surgery before you start eating chips. Here, we will discuss when you can eat chips after wisdom teeth removal, the common myths regarding the surgery, and how you can promote speedy recovery after wisdom teeth removal.
Proper nutrition after wisdom teeth removal
We generally do not feel like eating much immediately after the surgery. However, healing is of utmost importance during this period. So, you should eat a healthy diet and intake enough calories. That means the initial days after the surgery are intended to focus on nutrient-rich foods. So, you need more than chips during this period to meet your proper nutritional requirements. However, that does not mean you aren’t admitted to eating chips at all after wisdom teeth removal. Chips are low in calories and will not pose a threat to your gradual recovery process. We advise eating chips in moderation after wisdom tooth surgery.
Rules to follow after wisdom teeth removal
In the first 48 hours after the tooth extraction, avoid vigorously rinsing your mouth, as that might wear away the blood clot. You should also not use straws for drinking and avoid smoking. Disturbing the extraction site with fingers or a tongue is also a big no-no.
- Bleeding
Bleeding is common after tooth removal, and to minimize the same, you can bite a damp gauge for at least one hour after surgery. Try to keep your head elevated by using a pillow instead of lying flat. Keep your activities limited for the initial 2–3 days.
- Normal diet
It would help if you allowed 24 hours to pass and then resumed your regular diet. That is because your mouth will remain extremely sensitive to cold or hot food for at least three days after surgery.
- Swelling
Swelling is also common after tooth removal, and it might remain for 2–3 days after the surgery. You can apply an ice pack to the area immediately after the wisdom tooth extraction. Try to leave the ice pack for 20 minutes. However, you should not continue the pack after 24 hours.
- Infection
There is always a chance of infection after any surgery. However, that will not happen in most cases when you continue all prescribed medicines properly. If you are a woman taking antibiotics post-surgery, it is advised to stop your birth control pills.
When to start eating chips after surgery
You can start eating chips after your wisdom teeth are removed the very day you feel comfortable. That means you can even begin the day immediately following the surgery. However, we recommend waiting a few days before you actually start eating chips. If you feel pain while eating, stop at once, reassess your food habits, and try something different.
If you wish to eat chips, we recommend eating one at a time and moistening them in your mouth before chewing. Bleeding in your mouth is common in the days that follow immediately after the surgery. You should also stop eating chips if you see unusual bleeding.
To conclude, you can eat chips after your wisdom teeth removal as soon as you are comfortable eating them. Ensure to listen to the body and schedule a follow-up with the dentist.
