Recovering from a tooth extraction requires special care — and what you eat plays a major role in your healing process. After a dental procedure, the extraction site is tender and vulnerable. Eating the wrong foods can delay healing or cause complications like dry socket. That’s why soft, easy-to-chew foods are highly recommended.

This guide lists 50 soft foods to eat after tooth extraction to keep you nourished, comfortable, and on the path to fast recovery.

Why Soft Foods Are Important After Tooth Extraction

When a tooth is removed, the area forms a clot to begin the healing process. Hard, chewy, or spicy foods can disturb the site, cause pain, or even dislodge the clot — leading to a painful condition called dry socket. To prevent that, dentists advise eating only soft, smooth, and non-irritating foods for at least a few days post-surgery.

Tips for Eating After Tooth Extraction

Before we dive into the list, here are some quick tips:

• Eat lukewarm or cold foods for the first 24 hours (avoid hot foods).
  
  

• Avoid straws — sucking can dislodge the healing clot.
  
  

• Stay hydrated, but sip slowly.
  
  

• Chew on the opposite side of the extraction site.
  
  

• Maintain good oral hygiene (as per your dentist’s instructions).
  
  

Top 50 Soft Foods to Eat After Tooth Extraction

Here are 50 dentist-approved soft foods you can enjoy post-extraction, organized into helpful categories:

1. Soups and Broths

Warm (not hot) soups are soothing and hydrating.

1. Chicken broth
   
   

2. Vegetable broth
   
   

3. Cream of tomato soup
   
   

4. Cream of mushroom soup
   
   

5. Butternut squash soup
   
   

6. Lentil soup
   
   

7. Potato leek soup
   
   

8. Pureed pumpkin soup
   
   

2. Mashed & Pureed Foods

Easy to swallow and rich in nutrients.

9. Mashed potatoes
   
   

10. Mashed sweet potatoes
    
    

11. Mashed cauliflower
    
    

12. Avocado mash
    
    

13. Pureed carrots
    
    

14. Pureed peas
    
    

15. Hummus
    
    

16. Refried beans
    
    

3. Grains & Cereals

Soft, smooth grains offer energy and comfort.

17. Oatmeal
    
    

18. Cream of wheat
    
    

19. Rice pudding
    
    

20. Soft-cooked white rice
    
    

21. Polenta
    
    

22. Couscous (very soft)
    
    

23. Grits
    
    

24. Semolina porridge
    
    

4. Dairy & Alternatives

Cool, soothing, and protein-rich.

25. Greek yogurt (plain or fruit-flavored)
    
    

26. Smooth cottage cheese
    
    

27. Ricotta cheese
    
    

28. Pudding (chocolate or vanilla)
    
    

29. Custard
    
    

30. Milkshakes (without a straw!)
    
    

31. Ice cream (soft or melted slightly)
    
    

32. Smoothies (spoon only, no straw)
    
    

5. Fruits & Veggies (Soft or Blended)

Natural sweetness and fiber in a gentle form.

33. Applesauce
    
    

34. Mashed bananas
    
    

35. Ripe avocados
    
    

36. Canned peaches (soft, no syrup)
    
    

37. Steamed zucchini
    
    

38. Blended berries
    
    

39. Baked apple (without skin)
    
    

40. Soft mango slices
    
    

6. Protein & Soft Meats

Protein helps tissue repair and energy.

41. Scrambled eggs
    
    

42. Egg salad
    
    

43. Silken tofu
    
    

44. Shredded chicken (well-cooked and soft)
    
    

45. Baked fish (flaky, soft types like cod or tilapia)
    
    

46. Chicken or tuna salad (finely mashed)
    
    

47. Soft lentils
    
    

48. Meatloaf (moist and tender)
    
    

7. Treats & Extras

Safe, soft foods to enjoy in moderation.

49. Jell-O
    
    

50. Soft sponge cake (without nuts or crusty edges)
    
    

Foods to Avoid After Tooth Extraction

To ensure a smooth recovery, avoid the following:

• Crunchy foods (chips, popcorn, nuts)
  
  

• Sticky foods (caramel, gum)
  
  

• Spicy or acidic foods (salsa, citrus)
  
  

• Hot beverages (coffee, tea) in the first 24 hours
  
  

• Carbonated drinks and alcohol
  
  

• Using a straw (can cause dry socket)
  
  

How Long Should You Eat Soft Foods?

You should eat soft foods for at least 3 to 7 days after your tooth extraction, or longer if your dentist recommends it. Gradually reintroduce regular foods as the healing progresses and pain subsides.

Final Word

Recovering from tooth extraction doesn’t mean starving or eating bland meals. These 50 soft foods to eat after tooth extraction are not only safe but also delicious, diverse, and nutrient-rich. Focus on staying hydrated, eating protein and fiber, and avoiding anything that can irritate the wound.

Follow your dentist’s advice, rest well, and use this guide to plan your meals — your mouth will thank you!