The throbbing pain. The metallic taste. The constant hunger for something other than ice chips. For most of us, we know what this is: this is the first moment that the anesthesia wears off.

After having your wisdom teeth extracted, it's hard to think of what you can and can't have in your temporary diet of semi-solids. We tend to think we can no longer eat a well-rounded diet, that we're limited to ice-cream and jello. Even with the restrictions on sucking, slurping, and sipping, it's still possible to eat - and eat healthily.

FRUITS - Most people lack fruit in their diet to begin with, but this is a time when our bodies need their healing properties! Applesauce is always a good choice, and now that various other fruits and berries can be combined with it, there is a variety of flavor options. Non-acidic fruit juice is also a good choice. (Sorry orange juice lovers, but the acid is really painful on the cut-up gum.)

VEGETABLES - If you own a purer, any favorite vegetable is easily made edible for those with a swollen jar. For those of us that like our food to have some texture, mashed veggies and creamed soups are also a good choice.

DAIRY - Many people take this as an opportunity to go nuts with the various flavors and combinations of ice-cream. In reality, yogurt is your best choice for dairy. Not only is it healthier than yogurt, but there is a better chance of it counter-acting the nausea brought on by pain medications.

PROTEIN - While most of the time we get our protein from eating meat, some people can only stand warm chicken broth for so long. A true-blue way to gain the protein your body needs is by consuming peanut butter. Since both pancakes and french toast are two easy-chew breakfast options for people recovering from wisdom teeth extraction, peanut butter is the topping of choice!

While these are only a few suggestions, hopefully they will get you thinking for that last trip to the store before you, or a family member, have your wisdom teeth removed. Don't forget to keep in mind that, if all else fails, baby food is always a good option!

Learn more about this author, Tasha Richard.
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