What to Eat After a Root Canal? A root canal is a treatment used to repair a damaged tooth. Learn about the best time to eat after a root canal procedure and get tips on what foods to eat and what to avoid.
What to Eat and When After a Root Canal
After a tooth is damaged, a root canal is a common procedure used to repair it. During the procedure, the infected or diseased portion of the tooth is removed, the canals leading into the tooth are sealed, and a dental crown is placed to restore the tooth’s shape and function.
If you’ve recently undergone a root canal, you may be unsure about what to do in the aftermath, especially when it comes to eating. However, once the local anesthetic medication has worn off, you can usually resume eating. To learn more about the best time to eat after a root canal procedure, and which foods you should eat and avoid, keep reading.
When to eat after a root canal
After a root canal procedure, it is recommended to wait until the local anesthesia has worn off before eating anything. This usually takes a few hours. Because your gums and occasionally your tongue are a little numb after a root canal, it’s essential to wait before eating. You might end up breaking your artificial filling.
You can eat after a root canal without a crown. However, you should be careful when chewing and avoid biting down directly on the treated tooth until it has fully healed. The tooth may be sensitive for a few days after the procedure, and you should avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could cause discomfort or damage to the tooth.
See more: Root Canal or Extraction, Which Way to Go?
What foods to eat after a root canal
After a root canal, it is important to choose foods that are gentle on the treated tooth and the surrounding area. Here are some suggestions for what to eat:
- Soft, cooked vegetables: steamed or boiled vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower are easy to chew and provide essential vitamins and minerals.
- Soft fruits: ripe bananas, canned fruit, and applesauce are good options for getting in your fruit servings.
- Smoothies and soups: blended smoothies are easy to eat and can be packed with healthy ingredients like fruits, vegetables, and protein.
- Soft protein sources: eggs, tofu, and well-cooked, ground meat are good sources of protein that are easy to chew.
- Yogurt and other soft dairy products: yogurt, cottage cheese, and pudding are all gentle on the teeth and provide important nutrients like calcium.
- Whole grains: soft bread, pasta, and oatmeal are good fiber and energy sources.
Some patients are concerned that “can I eat chicken after a root canal?” After a root canal, it is generally safe to eat chicken as long as it is cooked and not too tough to chew.
Read more: How Much Does a Root Canal Cost ?
What Not to Eat After a Root Canal
After a root canal procedure, it is important to avoid certain foods and drinks that can cause irritation or damage to the treated tooth and the surrounding area. Here are some foods and drinks to avoid:
- Hard and crunchy foods: nuts, popcorn, chips, and other hard or crunchy foods can cause discomfort or damage to the treated tooth.
- Sticky foods: caramel, taffy, and other sticky candies can pull on the treated tooth and possibly dislodge the temporary filling or crown.
- Chewy foods: bagels, tough meats, and other chewy foods can be difficult to eat and may cause discomfort or irritation.
- Hot and spicy foods: hot peppers, spicy sauces, and other hot or spicy foods can cause pain and irritation to the treated area.
- Acidic foods and drinks: citrus fruits, tomatoes, and other acidic foods and drinks can cause sensitivity and irritation to the treated area.
- Carbonated drinks: soda and other carbonated drinks can be harmful to the treated tooth, as they can cause pain and sensitivity.
Learn More About Root Canal Aftercare
Root canal aftercare is an important part of ensuring a successful and comfortable recovery. It is important to take pain medication as prescribed, use ice packs, avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods, and brush and floss regularly.
You should rest and limit physical activity for the first few days after the procedure to promote healing. Moreover, You must follow any specific instructions given to you by your dentist or endodontist. With proper aftercare, most people can expect a full recovery and resume their normal activities in a few days to a week after the procedure.
When to Contact Your Dentist
It is important to contact your dentist or endodontist if you experience any of the following symptoms after a root canal:
- Severe or prolonged pain, swelling, bleeding.
- Allergic reaction
- Loose or damaged filling or crown
- High fever or chills
It is better to contact your dentist or endodontist immediately if you experience any of the above symptoms. They may recommend further treatment or follow-up care to ensure a successful recovery.
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