A root canal is a routine dental procedure that can save an infected or a potentially infected tooth. If you are just a recipient of a root canal or about to undergo one, then you may wonder, what can you eat after a root canal? Similar to any other dental procedure, some foods are more suitable for recovery, and there are foods that you should avoid. These instructions will direct you on what you should eat and what you shouldn’t eat once you have your surgery.
Can You Eat Right After a Root Canal?
The short answer is no. You don’t eat right after a root canal. The reason is simple: the numbness of the anesthetic will last a few hours. If you attempt to eat too early, you may bite your tongue, cheek, or lip without even knowing it, resulting in unnecessary pain and swelling.
How long after a root canal do you have to wait to eat? You should wait until the numbness has worn off completely. This takes two to four hours, but it can vary. If you’re unsure, consult your dentist.
What Foods to Eat After a Root Canal?
It is important to eat carefully after root filling because the treated area can feel tender, and you want a temporary filling. Here are some food recommendations to help you with a smooth improvement:
- First 24 hours: Follow a predominantly liquid diet to prevent irritation. Smoothies, protein shakes, yogurt, and jello are good choices. But now the question is, can you eat ice cream after a root canal? Yes, cold foods will help ease swelling and pain.
- The day after: You can get ready for soft, hot foods such as soup, mashed potatoes and fried eggs.
- After 72 hours: When your discomfort is reduced, you can start consuming soft pasta, boiled vegetables, soft fruit and bread.
Foods to Avoid Following a Root Canal
What can you eat after a root canal?
Even if you may be wooed to indulge in your favorite crushing or chewing food, you should avoid them for at least a few days.
- Hard foods such as nuts, chips, and raw vegetables can stress your teeth and cause pain.
- To avoid discomfort, eat soft foods such as curd, mashed potatoes, and soup. Sticky foods such as caramel, chewing gum, and chewing goods can get stuck in your teeth, which makes the treatment more difficult.
- Spicy, sour foods, alcohol, and caffeinated drinks such as coffee and soft drinks, they can delay recovery.
How Long Should You Wait Before Eating Normally?
Recovery from root filling is different for everyone, but most individuals can resume their regular diet within a few days. If you had a temporary filling, you should be more careful. Temporary fillers are not as durable as permanent fillers and can fracture if you eat something hard or chew. It is usually best to allow numbness only within two to four hours. Should you feel pain while eating food, there is still treatment. Please listen to your body and respect the need for recovery time.
Advice on Easy Recovery
Eating the right foods is just one part of the healing process, but other factors can also be considered to facilitate recovery and prevent complications.
- Chew with the Opposite Side: If possible, chew from the side where you did not get treatment. This eases the pressure that might be inflicted on the recuperating tooth, hence preventing irritation.
- Stay With a Clean Mouth: Brush and floss gently around the treated area. Don’t apply too much pressure on the tooth, but avoid having food particles and bacteria in your mouth.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water to keep your mouth hydrated helps to keep it clean and heal quickly.
- Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions: If your dentist provides special aftercare instructions, make sure to listen. They want to do what’s best for your recovery.
- Use Pain Medications if Necessary: You may experience any pain, and your dentist may prescribe over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen. Take them according to the instructions to alleviate swelling and pain.
Why Choose Gentle Teeth and Braces?
Our gentle teeth and braces stand out for our experienced professionals. Our mission is to provide our families with all phases of outstanding dental care in the convenience of one location with extended evening and weekend hours.
Our Dental care and Orthodontist services are available in the following locations: Pembroke Pines, Weston, Cooper City, and Coral Springs. We have skilled specialists who ensure you heal quickly and safely.
Final Thoughts
It’s not time to avoid a root canal, but remember what you eat. How soon can you eat after a root canal? To ensure that you do not accidentally cut your cheeks or tongue, numbness should stop before eating. Soft and cold foods like ice cream can calm the treated area, but nothing is sharp or hard. Stick to eating soft, simple foods on your teeth and gradually return to the regular diet in a few days. If something does not work correctly, contact your dentist for advice
