If you have experienced severe gum recession, your dentist may have recommended a gum graft. This procedure involves removing tissue from the roof of your mouth and securing it in place over the areas of recession.
A gum graft is a serious surgical procedure, and will require some time to heal. As such, you may not be able to eat many of the foods you are accustomed to eating for a short period of time. Here is what you should eat in order to properly heal.
Soft Fruits
Fruits contain many essential vitamins and minerals, as well as other important properties that can help you to heal.
These include vitamin C, vitamin K, antioxidant properties, and anti-inflammatory properties, among others. However, make sure that you choose soft fruits, such as bananas, berries, ripe mangos or pears. Avoid any fruits that are hard or crunchy, as they can irritate surgical sites.
Cooked Vegetables
Much like fruits, vegetables are filled with all kinds of essential vitamins and minerals that are important for a quick recovery. Vegetables contain things such as iron and magnesium, as well as calcium and protein. Once again, you want to make sure that your vegetables are soft, so steam them or roast them before eating.
Soups
Soups are a great way to incorporate a number of different food groups, as they are extremely versatile. They are also liquid (and the vegetables very soft) so they require little, if any chewing. For the best results, add a few extra vegetables, pumping up the nutritional content. Just make sure that the soup isn’t too hot before you dig in.
Smoothies
There is almost no wrong way to make a smoothie. Start with a base of milk (dairy or non-dairy) and add in as many fruits and vegetables as you see fit. Because everything is blended together, you don’t have to worry about chewing.
Proteins
There are several types of soft protein that you can enjoy while you heal. Eggs are a great source. Or, you can choose fish, which also contain omega-3 fatty acids. If you are vegetarian or vegan (or just looking for a meat-free alternative) you can opt for tofu, lentils or beans.
Other Soft Foods
There are a wide array of soft foods you can choose from while you heal, including:
• Pasta.
• Rice.
• Mashed potatoes.
• Yogurt.
• Ice cream or frozen yogurt.
• Milkshakes.
• Jell-O.
Making sure that you get all of your essential nutrients after your gum graft procedure is imperative for quick and proper healing. And once you have healed, you will be able to go back to eating all of your favorite foods. Contact our office for more ideas on other foods you can enjoy while you heal.
