Pediatric tooth extraction can be quite scary for kids (and sometimes parents too), but it’s usually painless and over quickly. After the extraction, you may be wondering what you should feed your child to get some nutrients into their body that will be easy for them to chew. Read on to learn what foods are best for children to eat after pediatric tooth extraction.
What Is Pediatric Tooth Extraction
Pediatric tooth extraction is a dental procedure that involves removing one or more teeth from a child’s mouth. This procedure is typically performed by a pediatric dentist or oral surgeon. While a child’s baby teeth will fall out on their own to make room for adult teeth in most cases, sometimes an extraction is needed. The most common reason for a child to need a tooth extraction is because their baby teeth are crowding their permanent teeth and causing them to come in crooked. Other reasons for needing this procedure can include infection, decay, or trauma.
Best Foods For After A Pediatric Tooth Extraction
After your child has a tooth extracted, it's important to give their diet some thought. They'll need to eat soft foods that are easy to chew to avoid irritating their gums. You'll also want to make sure they're getting enough nutrients and staying hydrated. Here are some ideas for what to feed your child after they've had a tooth extracted:
- Fruit juice or a smoothie
- Pudding, ice cream or milkshake
- Cream of wheat or oatmeal
- Rice or pasta
- Cereal mixed with milk.
- Mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, scrambled eggs, mashed carrots or peas
- Blended soup or broth
Foods To Avoid After Pediatric Tooth Extraction
It is normal for your child to experience swelling, sensitivity, and slight pain after a pediatric tooth extraction, so there are certain foods that children should avoid after the procedure. In general, it is best to avoid foods that are chewy, crunchy, or hot. Foods to avoid after a pediatric tooth extraction include:
- Hard candy and gum
- Nuts and chips
- Sticky foods
- Spicy foods
- Hot beverages
More Tips For After Pediatric Tooth Extraction
Children should also avoid sucking on straws and eating crunchy foods after they get a tooth pulled to avoid bleeding. If your child is experiencing swelling, use an icepack for a few days after the procedure. In addition to making sure your child’s teeth are brushed, it may be a good idea to have them do a warm salt water rinse to make sure the mouth is clean and can heal properly.
Does Your Child Need A Tooth Pulled?
It is important that your child’s adult teeth have ample room to grow in, so pediatric tooth extraction may be necessary if your child has an adult tooth coming in directly behind a baby tooth. If you have questions about your child’s teeth or pediatric tooth extraction, the pediatric dentists at ABQ Pediatric Dentistry can determine what’s best for your child’s oral health. For more information on the pediatric dental services we provide or to schedule an appointment, contact us today at 505-888-3520.