How long does a mandible take to heal so you can eat?

Depends on fracture: Severe fractures may take 6-8 weeks to fully heal and some even need to have the upper and lower teeth wired or elastic banded together. So what and when can you eat all depends on the injury. Ask your surgeon what's appropriate.

Fracture?: Broken Jaw. 4-8 weeks. Depending on type of fracture and other factors.

4–6 weeks: The healing time for a routine mandible procedure or fractures is 4–6 weeks. As your jaw heals, you will be able to add regular foods for your nutrition.