There are times when you might experience tender teeth and gums, whether from braces, oral surgery, or cancer treatment. How you treat your mouth during this time will help you heal quicker, and safely. The foods you eat (or drink) can either help or hurt your recovery!
To make chewing and swallowing easier, cut your food into tiny pieces. You might find eating with a small spoon ensures that you are eating small bites at a time. Be sure to cook your food until it is tender and soft, and moisten it with butter, margarine, sauce or gravy. A food processor or blender can also help make your food preparation easier.
Foods to eat:
–Pureed meats or vegetables
–Macaroni and cheese
–Mashed potatoes and noodles
–Scrambled eggs
–Yogurt and cottage cheese
–Applesauce and bananas
–Puddings and gelatin
–Oatmeal and other cooked cereal
–Milkshakes and smoothies
Foods to avoid:
–Spicy or salty foods
–Tomatoes or tomato juice or other acidic food like oranges, grapefruits, lemons or limes
–Raw vegetables that are crunchy like celery and carrots
–Dry, rough foods like granola, or toast and crackers
Stay well-hydrated to prevent dry mouth. Take time for sipping throughout the day. Water is helpful because it doesn’t introduce plaque causing bacteria which sweetened drinks do. You can also drink unsweetened herbal teas High school Football Food.
Caring for your teeth and gums during this time means you will want to be extra gentle, not to irritate them. Brushing gently with a soft bristled toothbrush and rinsing with warm water when your mouth and gums are sore can really help.
Take good care of your teeth and mouth while you are recovering, and let us know if there is anything we can do to help or if you just have questions. Advanced Dental wishes you a speedy recovery and we can be reached at 507-345-1284.