Root canal therapy is an effective treatment option to save a damaged or infected tooth. It involves the removal of pulp tissues and sealing the tooth to prevent reinfection. While the procedure itself is not painful because it is done under anesthesia, you may experience some discomfort afterward. Knowing which foods you can eat and the ones you should avoid can help you with the recovery process.
How Long Should You Wait To Eat After Root Canal Therapy?
During the procedure, your dentist uses a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding soft tissues. So, for a few hours after the treatment, you may not feel any pain or sensation in the area. We avoid eating anything during this period as there is a chance of accidentally biting your tongue or the inside of your cheeks.
Once the effect of anesthesia wears off, you can start off with a soft diet. For the first few hours, avoid using the treated side of your mouth. Also, refrain from eating hard, chewy, and sticky foods for some time as they may trigger pain in the treated tooth.
Which Foods Are Safe To Eat After A Root Canal?
A root-canal-treated tooth remains tender for one to two days after the procedure. For this reason, dentists recommend sticking to a soft diet that is easy to chew and swallow. Some examples include:
- Smoothies
- Ice creams
- Yogurt
- Milkshakes
- Soups
- Soft salads
- Mashed potatoes
- Scrambled eggs
- Pancakes
- Pudding
- Hummus
- Applesauce
- Soft fruits
When eating or drinking something, make sure that it is not too hot, as it may irritate the gums around the tooth. After a few days, you can gradually introduce harder foods to your diet.
Which Foods To Avoid After A Root Canal?
It is best to avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods after the procedure for a few days. This allows your tooth to adapt to the new change, minimizing the risk of pain and discomfort. Foods you should avoid after treatment include:
- Nuts
- Popcorn
- Seeds
- Undercooked meat
- Raw vegetables
- Hard fruits like apples
- Sticky candies
- Chewing gums
In addition to avoiding these foods, dentists also suggest limiting alcohol intake and avoiding smoking during the healing period. When brushing your teeth, make sure to be extra gentle around the root-canal-treated tooth as it may be tender compared to other teeth. These guidelines ensure that your tooth recovers well, allowing you to resume your normal diet within a few days.
To Sum Up
Slight pain and discomfort are normal symptoms after a root canal that usually disappear within a short time. However, it is best to eat soft foods during this period as it helps achieve a comfortable recovery.
If you have more questions or oral health concerns, reach out to our dental professionals at Céline Dental Cosmetic Dentistry & Orthodontics. Call us today at (281) 262-2332 to schedule an appointment.