Mouth numbness can be a temporary and unpleasant sensation that frequently occurs after dental procedures or specific medical interventions. It is essential to choose foods that are easy to digest and won’t cause further discomfort during this time. So, what can you eat when your mouth is numb?
Choose soft, easily-chewable foods such as mashed potatoes, pureed soups, smoothies, and yogurt when your mouth is paralyzed. Also acceptable are fruits, vegetables, and proteins that have been blended or pureed. Puddings, gelatins, and cooked grains with a soft texture are mild options.
Let’s learn about more options you can eat when your mouth is numb.
Can You Eat While Mouth Is Numb?
While consuming with a numbed mouth is possible, it is important to exercise caution and make wise food selections. Dental procedures or medical treatments can cause mouth numbness and impair your ability to perceive temperature and properly chew.
Choose soft, readily chewable foods that do not necessitate excessive effort or pose a risk of injury. Choose foods such as mashed potatoes, pureed soups, smoothies, and yogurt that are simple to chew and swallow. Consult your healthcare provider or dentist for specific recommendations based on your individual circumstances.
How Long After Mouth Numbing Can I Eat?
Depending on the procedure or treatment you have undertaken, the duration of mouth numbing can vary. It is essential to adhere to the instructions of your physician or healthcare provider.
The effects of anesthetics used during dental procedures typically last a few hours. Once the numbness begins to subside and you regain sensation in your mouth, you may resume eating gradually.
However, it is best to wait until the full sensation has returned to avoid inadvertently biting your tongue or cheek. If you have any concerns or queries about eating after having your mouth numbed, it is best to seek the advice of your dentist or healthcare provider.
What Can You Eat When Your Mouth Is Numb?
When your mouth is numb, it is essential to select foods that are simple to consume, require minimal chewing, and pose no risk of injury. Here are some suitable options:
- Soft Foods: Foods that are soft and easy to ingest include mashed potatoes, pureed soups, smoothies, and yogurt. These foods are easy to consume and will not burden your mouth.
- Blended or Pureed Foods: Blend or puree fruits, vegetables, and proteins to create silky, easily-swallowed textures. While your mouth is numb, soups, smoothies, and protein drinks can be excellent options for obtaining essential nutrients.
- Puddings and Gelatins: Puddings, custards, and gelatins are gentle on the mouth and make dining enjoyable. They can be a gratifying and nourishing option when it is difficult to chew.
- Soft Cooked Grains: Cooked grains with a softer consistency, such as rice, quinoa, or oatmeal, are excellent options for easy consumption. Ensure that the cereals are cooked until soft and easily chewable.
- Applesauce and Fruit Purees: Applesauce and other fruit purees are both supple and nutritious. They can provide nutrients and fiber without irritating the mouth.
- Smooth Nut Butter: Nut butters that are creamy and smooth, such as peanut butter or almond butter, can be spread on soft bread or added to smoothies to add flavor and protein.
- Ice Cream or Frozen Yogurt: Cold delights, such as ice cream or frozen yogurt, can help alleviate discomfort in the mouth while providing a pleasant eating experience.
- Soups and broths: When your mouth is numb, warm soups and broths are comforting and simple to swallow. Choose soups with a fluid consistency, such as tomato soup, butternut squash soup, and creamy vegetable soup. Avoid burns by exercising caution when exposed to heat.
- Soft fruits: When your mouth is numb, soft, mature fruits such as bananas, avocados, and melons are the best options. These fruits are easy on the palate and require little effort to consume.
What Precautions Should You Take When Eating With a Numb Mouth?
- Avoid meals that are rough, crunchy, or take a lot of chewing since they might cause pain or injury.
- Be cautious with heated temperatures to avoid burns, as you may not be able to precisely judge the heat.
- Choose smaller, more frequent meals to ensure appropriate nourishment throughout the day.
- Stay hydrated by drinking room temperature water or non-carbonated liquids.
- If the numbness in your mouth persists or worsens, see a doctor to find out what’s causing it and get the right therapy.
What Helps Mouth Numbness Go Away?
Mouth numbness is typically temporary and subsides on its own as the numbing agents lose their effectiveness. However, if you wish to speed up the procedure, you can attempt the following:
- In most instances, the numbness will subside on its own within a few hours. Often, patience is the greatest strategy.
- Gently cleansing your mouth with warm water can help stimulate blood flow and may hasten the return of sensation.
- While your mouth is still numb, you should avoid consuming heated foods and beverages to avoid accidental burns.
- To avoid inadvertently biting your tongue, cheekbones, or lips, be mindful of your chewing movements until you regain full sensation.
- Engaging in gentle facial exercises, such as smiling or opening and closing your mouth, can increase blood circulation and decrease numbness.
- If the numbness lasts longer than expected or if you have any concerns, you should contact your dentist or healthcare provider.
Bottom Line
This was all about what can you eat when your mouth is numb. When experiencing mouth numbness, choosing foods that are simple to chew, gentle on the mouth, and won’t cause additional discomfort is essential.
Smoothies, yogurt, mashed potatoes, soups, and blended or pureed foods are optimal during this time period. Remember to avoid hot or spicy foods, crunchy, or difficult to digest until the numbness subsides.
Thank you for reading!