Despite their fun and endearing name, wisdom teeth can end up causing a lot of problems when they grow in. Because of this, you might need to undergo surgery in order to have the wisdom teeth removed. If you don't get them removed, then they could end up crowding and damaging neighboring teeth.

After you get your wisdom teeth taken out, it is very important that you get the right nutrition. This will help you aid the wound-healing process, receive nourishment, reduce swelling, and minimize the chances of complications occurring. 

But what are the right foods to eat after wisdom teeth removal?

We're glad you asked. You should eat foods that are soft and easy to eat. They should have plenty of protein, energy, minerals, and vitamins too. 
So keep on reading and we will take you through the top foods that you should eat after getting your wisdom teeth removed. 

1. Blended Soups
A blended soup, like pumpkin or tomato soup, is great to eat after you have had your wisdom teeth taken out. These soups are easy to consume and they don't contain pieces that could irritate the sensitive areas of your mouth.

Also, soups tend to be rich in minerals and vitamins. This can help make sure that you get your daily nutrition recommendations when you can't eat a lot of whole vegetables and fruits. 

Blended soups can also help make sure that you stay hydrated, which is very important after undergoing surgery. 

It's a good idea to have a soup that is either cold or lukewarm. This is because hot foods can cause irritation. Also, make sure that you blend vegetable soups to be as smooth as possible so that there aren't any chunks. 

2. Broths
Similar to blended soups, broths are another great source of nourishment after surgery. They are delicious and also contain lots of minerals and vitamins. Also, broths are a great way to stay hydrated if you are having problems drinking enough water.

Bone broth comes with many health benefits. It is a nutritious stock that's made by simmering animal tissue and bones. 

3. Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt has a creamy and smooth texture that is soothing and can help numb the mouth. Greek yogurt contains a high amount of protein. It also has plenty of vitamins and minerals, including zinc and calcium.

Foods that are high in protein can help speed up the recovery process. Also, consuming a lot of zinc can help with wound healing.

Many foods that are rich in zinc, like steak, are too difficult to eat after dental surgery. So Greek yogurt is a great alternative.
 
4. Mashed Potatoes
Potatoes are a root vegetable that can be prepared in a variety of ways. Mashed potatoes can be a comforting dish that is easy to eat after having your wisdom teeth taken out.

They are rich in nutrients and calories, which are helpful when you're recovering. People who are recovering from surgery tend to have slightly higher energy requirements. 

Mashed potatoes also let you get a lot of energy and nutrients with only a few bites. Just make sure that your mashed potatoes aren't too hot.

5. Scrambled Eggs
One of the best foods you can eat in general is eggs. And that is doubly true when it comes to people who are recovering from wisdom teeth surgery.

Eggs are a great source of protein and they contain plenty of minerals and vitamins. Try to find pasteurized eggs or eggs that are omega-3-enriched. Scrambled eggs are easier to chew when compared to other kinds of egg dishes. 

6. Applesauce
If you know anyone who ever had their tonsils taken out as a kid, then you probably saw them slurping down applesauce at some point. If you've recently had your wisdom teeth taken out, then eating a crunchy and hard apple is out of the question.

However, you can easily consume some applesauce without any issues.
It should be noted that most applesauce products are made from puréed apples, and those apples have usually been cored and peeled. This can reduce the nutritional value of the food.

An apple's skin contains a lot of fiber, minerals, and vitamins.
Nevertheless, apple sauce can be a good way to get some vitamin C in. 

9. Avocados
Avocados seem to be all over the place nowadays. While most fruits tend to be high in carbs, avocados are very low in carbs but high in healthy fats. Their creamy and smooth texture makes them great for people who are recovering from dental surgery.

These fruits are also very nutritious and a rich source of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin K.

To make them even easier to eat, consider eating mashed or whipped avocados. 

The Importance of Knowing What Foods to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal to Reduce Pain

Hopefully, after reading the above article, you now have a better idea of what the best foods to eat after wisdom teeth removal are. As we can see, you should mainly stick to creamy and cold or lukewarm foods in order to avoid irritation while getting in all of your essential nutrients. Because creamy foods tend to contain a lot of sugar, you should stay vigilant and make sure that you check all nutrition labels. 

​If you live near Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, Chino, or Wildomar, CA you can get the finest dental care from the caring and experienced dentists at Upland Dental Implant and Orthodontics.

What is periodontitis?
Periodontitis is a gum infection. It comes from bacteria that is growing on your teeth and gums. If the infection is not treated, permanent damage can occur to your teeth and gums. It is important to see your dentist every six months to detect periodontitis early. Once detected, it is possible to provide treatment early and with excellent oral hygiene, damage can be prevented. 

Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the early stage of periodontitis. It is the infection and inflammation occurring in your gums. Sometimes, if you seen bleeding after flossing and brushing, that is a sign you have early gingivitis. 

Gingivitis comes from plaque, Plaque is a yellow whitish layer of buildup on your teeth. It is where food is left on your teeth and bacteria grows within the plaque. If plaque isn't thoroughly clean off via brushing and flossing everyday after meals, and regular cleanings with the dentist aren't scheduled, the bacteria will flourish and cause gingivitis.

Periodontitis 
Gingivitis then proceeds to early periodontitis. In this stage, gums start to recede, and small gaps between the teeth that look like triangular spaces start to form. As the gum recedes, it also pulls away from the tooth and form pockets. The pockets are also spaces were bacteria can thrive. The bacteria is a source of constant infection and as your body battles the infection, generalized inflammation develops and persists. This persistent inflammation leads to more loss of gum tissue and eventually the bone that holds teeth in disappears as well. When your dentist discusses bone loss, this is the area that they are talking about. Without enough bone to hold the teeth in, this is how some people can lose their teeth. 

If the periodontal disease becomes advanced, the person could have pain when they eat, not to mention bad breath and constant  bad taste. 

Continued infection can also affect your health as it leads to full body inflammation. 
​
How do you know if you have periodontitis?
You know you have periodontitis if you:

• have bleeding gums after brushing and floss
• if your teeth are loose or seem to move on their own after a while
• bad breath
• small triangle spaces between your teeth
• gum recession
• observe plaque and calculus 
• when it hurts when you eat
• persistent bad breath or taste
• dark red gums
• swollen gums

How Do You Get Periodontitis?

The plaque and calculus that develop on your teeth everyday harbors the bacteria that causes periodontitis. If that plaque and calculus isn't thoroughly cleaned off everyday with brushing and flossing and dental cleanings aren't scheduled on a regular basis, that bacteria will create gum disease. 

Maintaining a clean mouth on a daily basis will prevent gum disease aka periodontitis. 

Higher Risk Groups
Some people tend to be at risk of developing periodontitis as well. People that:

• smoke
• have diabetes
• are obese
• are pregnant
• may have immunocompromised systems
• are taking medicines that cause dry mouth, the lack of saliva can alter the pH in our mouths that make it more prone to periodontal disease
• genes
• vitamin C deficient

Dental Visits
Seeing your dentist regularly is important to treat periodontal disease and to also make sure that it doesn't get worse. 

Dentists keep track of your periodontal status by checking the pocket depths in your gums with a probe. The dentist will also be able to check for and remove any calculus that is growing under the gumline. 

If needed, they may also refer to a gum specialist, known as a periodontist, for evaluation and any treatment. 

Effects of Long Term Periodontitis

• lose teeth
  
• develop abscesses and pus
  
• teeth may move on their own due to lack of bone support
• gum recession can lead to the roots of the teeth being exposed which can greatly increase sensitivity
• the chronic generalized inflammation can increase risk of heart disease, diabetes complications, respiratory disease and complications during pregnancy. 

Treatment
After being diagnosed with periodontitis, first step is to have your dentist remove the plaque and bacteria. A deep cleaning that involves scaling and root planing will clean off the calculus and remove the bacteria. An antibiotic treatment may be recommended as well to curb bacteria growth. Evaluation appointment may be scheduled as needed to monitor the improvement. 

The next step is to practice excellent oral hygiene at home to prevent bacterial regrowth. Brushing after every meal, to keep teeth clean and plaque free throughout the day. Investment in an electric toothbrush may help with the hard to reach areas. Flossing throughout at bedtime is necessary to ensure that the teeth are clean during that period you are sleeping. Plan regular visits to the dentist at least every six months and not smoking or using chew tobacco will ensure healthy gums. 
  
As long as if periodontitis is caught early on,  regular appointments with the dentist are kept and excellent hygiene habits are kept up at home, gum treatment can have great success. Good maintenance and having regular dental visits will keep periodontitis at bay. 

Do you ever feel self-conscious about your teeth? If you don't like your teeth, you can do something to change them. In some cases, that can mean looking into DIY teeth whitening solutions.

Unfortunately, whitening your teeth at home isn't always the safest option. Not only are some remedies dangerous, but user error can cause problems with otherwise safe ingredients.

Before you buy those whitening strips or try oil pulling, consider the dangers of some common DIY teeth whitening options.

Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is a common DIY teeth whitening option, and it can absorb stains on your teeth to whiten them. The charcoal may also absorb toxins that may contribute to discolored teeth.

In some cases, activated charcoal can have medical uses. However, whitening teeth shouldn't be one of them. When you use activated charcoal on your teeth, it can scrape away the enamel, which protects your teeth.

When you lose your enamel, it won't come back. Because of that, it can make your teeth more sensitive, so you may need to be careful with what you eat or drink.

While activated charcoal may be fine to use occasionally, you shouldn't use it all of the time. 

Baking Soda
​It can be tempting to use baking soda since many people have it already. However, it can also be abrasive like activated charcoal, so it can damage your enamel.

If you use baking soda on your teeth a lot, your teeth can get sensitive, and you may increase your risk of cavities. When you get more cavities, that can cause other issues for your teeth and gums.

Lemon Juice
Another easily accessible ingredient that can do some enamel damage is lemon juice. While the acid in the juice may whiten your teeth, it is acid. Over time, the acid can cause your enamel to wear away.

Whether you use lemon juice or another home remedy, the enamel won't come back. Now, that doesn't mean you can't have food with lemon juice or drink lemonade.

However, you shouldn't use plain lemon juice to whiten your teeth at home. The acid can be even worse for your teeth than activated charcoal or baking soda.

Don't risk your dental health just to whiten your teeth. You may see some results, but if you keep using lemon juice, you'll only hurt your teeth more.

Oil Pulling
People have used oil pulling as a home remedy for years, but that doesn't make it safe. For some people, it may not be a problem to do it occasionally.
However, it can lead to adverse effects, like headaches, a sore jaw, and tooth sensitivity. Oil pulling involves swishing oil around your mouth, and you typically do it on an empty stomach.

Proponents say it can get rid of bacteria in your mouth, and it can stimulate your saliva. You can also use any oil you like, such as coconut oil or sunflower oil.

Unfortunately, oil pulling can be dangerous if you rely on it instead of brushing your teeth. It can also be harmful if you swallow the oil, so it can damage more than your teeth.

Hydrogen Peroxide
While your dentist can use hydrogen peroxide during your professional teeth whitening or teeth cleaning, you shouldn't use it at home. A dentist knows how to deal with whitening and how to use it so that it can be safe.

However, most people don't know how to use hydrogen peroxide for DIY teeth whitening. Your dentist knows how to use profession whitening products to give you the whitening results you want. But they won't use too much to the point where it will damage your teeth.

It can be hard to find the right amount because you want it to be safe and effective. Focusing too much on safety means it won't change your teeth much. Meanwhile, focusing too much on effectiveness can cause enamel damage and harm the soft tissues in your mouth. 

Whitening Strips and Gels
You can buy DIY Teeth whitening strips and gels, many of which contain  peroxide. Now, these gels and strips may have a specific amount of peroxide, so you won't have to measure it out.

However, they can lead to other problems for your teeth. For example, a whitening strip won't always get in between your teeth, so you could miss parts of your teeth when whitening them.

Even if you use a gel, it can be hard to reach every part of every tooth when teeth whitening at home. You may make your teeth look worse if there's a big discrepancy between the fronts and the edges of your teeth. And like any other DIY teeth whitening remedy, it can damage your teeth and irritate your gums.

Bleach Kits
Perhaps you don't want to use a strip or gel, but you find a bleach kit at your local store or pharmacy. Unfortunately, these can be problematic despite using the same ingredients as your dentist uses.

For one, a bleach kit may not have the right amount of bleach for your teeth. A dentist can consult with you and plan the right amount of bleach to whiten your teeth enough.

Also, bleaching your teeth at home can be dangerous if your mouth isn't healthy. If you have a cavity, that leaves the door open for bleach to get into your tooth and to your nerves. Then, you could experience severe pain from teeth whitening at home.

The Alternative to DIY Teeth Whitening
Before you consider DIY teeth whitening remedies, you should consider the risks. In most cases, the risks aren't worth being able to whiten your teeth at home.

While you may save money, you may end up in pain or with sensitive teeth that won't get better. Fortunately, a dentist can help whiten your teeth without as many risks.
​
Do you want to whiten your teeth safely? Contact us to schedule an appointment.

There are very few things better than having freshly cleaned teeth.

Have you ever caught yourself glancing in the mirror at your newly cleaned teeth?

For some, it’s like you have a bright new smile. Having clean white teeth will make anyone feel confident and happy!

Do you want to brighten your smile? Then you must get your teeth professionally cleaned.

Regular dentist checkups and cleanings are necessary for healthy teeth and gums. Teeth cleanings prevent tooth decay, cavities, stains, and other diseases that can affect your quality of life and overall health. Regular cleanings and dentist visits will ensure your teeth will not only look great but will last your entire lifetime!

Has it been a while since you last visited the dentist?

If yes, here are seven key reasons why you need to get your teeth professionally cleaned!

1. A Complete Cleaning
Some people are meticulous when it comes to their oral hygiene. They’ll spend time every morning and night carefully brushing and flossing every corner of their mouths.

This is a great practice that will improve your oral health. Unfortunately, regardless of your oral hygiene routine, you won’t reach the same level of cleaning as professionally cleaned teeth.

This is in part because we can’t see every nook and cranny in our mouths. The front of your teeth may look fantastic as that’s the area we see the most. The areas behind your teeth, in-between your teeth, and your molars may have hidden pockets of plaque and tartar buildup.

A dentist has the tools and vantage point to check and clean every area in your mouth.

2. A Pain-Free Experience
How often have you avoided a visit to the dentist because you thought it would lead to a painful experience?

Professional dental cleaning is a painless experience. Many patients would go so far as to say it feels good!

Your dentist doesn’t want your visit to be uncomfortable, let alone painful. As they clean your teeth, they’ll often ask how you’re feeling to ensure it's a pleasant experience.

The cleaning tools used are more effective than at-home remedies and are gentle. If you struggle with extreme sensitivity, many dentists will offer a numbing agent or comfort aid.

3. Prevents Gum Disease and Other Issues
Gum disease is a growing oral health issue. Most adult Americans will experience some form of gum disease in their life.

The most common issue is gingivitis. Gingivitis causes swelling of the gums, bad breath, and possible bleeding when brushing. This can evolve into periodontitis which erodes the bone, weakens teeth, and can cause them to fall out.

Gingivitis and/or a build-up of bacteria can lead to gum disease. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to serious problems including tooth loss, painful gums, and affect your overall health.

Do you want to prevent gum disease and these other potential health issues?

Having your teeth professionally cleaned will remove bacteria build-up and prevent these oral health issues.

4. Boosts Your Confidence
The most noticeable difference before and after a professional dental cleaning is whiter teeth. Having bright white teeth is a mood booster and can help you feel more confident for a job interview, a party, or a special occasion.

A professional dental cleaning removes the stains and plaque that cause your teeth to look dull. Besides whiter teeth, you (and others) will also enjoy fresher breath.

After having your teeth professionally cleaned, you’ll feel more confident showing your dazzling teeth when you smile.

5. Cleans Plaque and Tartar
You can spend hours every week cleaning your teeth and avoiding acidic and sugary food. The inevitable fact remains, plaque and tartar will start to build up.

Plaque is a sticky yellowish film that forms over your teeth. You can remove most plaque with regular brushing and flossing when it’s soft.

When plaque hardens, it becomes a calcium called tartar. Only your dentist or hygienist can safely remove tartar from your teeth.

Following good dental hygiene as described above will slow the buildup of plaque and tartar but not eliminate it. The natural bacteria and minerals found in your saliva cause some buildup. When left untreated, the tartar can start to eat away your teeth causing them to weaken.

The longer you wait between dental cleanings, the more plaque and tartar will build. Visit your dentist to have any potentially harmful tartar removed from your teeth.

6. Know Your Dental Health
Dental issues could be lurking in your mouth without you knowing. After years of avoiding the dentist, you may be in for an unfortunate surprise the next time you go!

There are many oral diseases related to teeth grinding, acid reflux, vitamin deficiencies, diabetes, and more. Conversely, unchecked oral health problems can cause arthritis, asthma, respiratory issues, and oral cancer.

Many untreated oral issues can lead to tooth weakness and loss. Replacing lost teeth is an expensive procedure. Visiting your dentist for a regular checkup is much easier and cost-efficient.
​
Your dentist will thoroughly check your mouth and look for any early signs of potential problems. Detecting problems early will prevent any serious oral health issues from occurring. This will save you time and money as it's much easier to treat an issue in its early stages rather than later.

7. Prevent Bad Habits
Many of us have a few vices. While we might think these are harmless activities, they're actually bad habits that can hurt our teeth. This includes drinking coffee, biting nails, chewing ice, and enjoying more than the occasional sweet.

All of these activities can negatively affect our teeth. Most cause the enamel to weaken or leave unsightly stains.

Dental cleanings can help slow down these negative effects on your teeth but not prevent them. A regular checkup will remind you of your bad habits and will inspire you to follow healthier habits.

Get Your Teeth Professionally Cleaned Today
Having your teeth professionally cleaned about every six months will keep your smile looking bright. Dental cleanings will prevent any health issues and ensure you enjoy your teeth for years to come!

Have questions or want to make a dental appointment today? Let us know! We’ll help you keep your teeth bright and healthy.