If you need a root canal, you may wonder how long a root canal procedure is and if it is complicated! It is a pretty simple procedure. But you shouldn’t overlook what comes next and prepare well for your after-care.
One simple approach is to stock your pantry and refrigerator with the foods you can eat after the surgery. This will help to lessen the strain on your treated tooth and make the healing process go more smoothly. But what to eat after a root canal? Keep reading to find out!
Foods to Eat After Root Canal
Basically, all your meals need to be gentle on your teeth. So, here is a list of 20 soft foods to eat after a root canal.
- Soup –Warm and comforting, soup is easy to eat and can be packed with veggies.
- Yogurt- Probiotics in yogurt can help promote healthy gut bacteria.
- Eggs –Scrambled, boiled, or poached eggs are a great source of protein.
- Avocado- Packed with healthy fats, avocados can be one of the best things to eat after a root canal.
- Mashed Potatoes- Soft and easy to eat, mashed potatoes are comforting.
- Applesauce- A refreshing snack, plus a great fiber and vitamin C source.
- Bananas- Rich in potassium and easy to eat.
- Smoothies- Blend together your favorite fruits and veggies.
- Ice Cream- While not the healthiest option, it provides a soothing treat to your mouth.
- Hummus- A great source of protein and fiber, hummus can be a tasty dip.
- Oatmeal- Packed with fiber and protein, oatmeal is good to eat after a root canal.
- Quinoa- Quinoa is a protein-rich grain that can be a tasty and filling addition to any meal.
- Fish- High in omega-3 fatty acids, fish can help reduce inflammation.
- Protein Shake- A quick and easy way to boost protein and nutrients.
- Soft Cheese- Creamy and easy to eat, soft cheese can be a tasty snack.
- Peaches- Soft and juicy peaches can be a refreshing snack after a root canal.
- Tofu- A vegetarian source of protein, tofu can be used in stir-fries or salads.
- Ground Beef- Easy to eat and high in protein, ground beef can be a tasty addition to soups or stews.
- Beans- Soft-boiled beans are the perfect soft food to eat after a root canal.
- Broth- Warm and soothing, broth can be sipped or used as a base for soups and stews.
What to Avoid After Root Canal?
What can I eat after the root canal – There’s hardly any patient who doesn’t ask this question to the dentist. But knowing what not to eat after the procedure is equally important. Here are some foods that may cause discomfort and dislodge your temporary tooth filling:
- Extremely hot or cold foods and drinks.
- Sticky items like gum and sweets.
- Chewy meals like crusty bread or certain meats.
- Nuts and other hard foods
- Crunchy foods like pretzels and chips
When to Call Your Dentist?
Be aware of these warning signs and call your dentist right away if you experience any:-
- Allergic reactions, such as a rash or itching
- Severe discomfort or pressure in your tongue
- Swelling that’s getting worse instead of better
- Fever
Frequently Asked Questions
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How long after a root canal can you eat normally?
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You can eat 30 to 45 minutes following a root canal to let your temporary tooth filling firm completely. Also, you must wait to eat until the anesthetic has worn off to avoid biting your cheek or tongue.
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What are the dos and don’ts after a root canal?
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You should avoid biting on hard or crunchy items while you are recovering. Allow enough time for your tooth to heal before returning to your routine. Do not clean your teeth vigorously. It has the potential to harm your fillings or induce excessive hypersensitivity.
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Does salt water help after a root canal?
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Rinsing the region thrice daily with warm salt water will help reduce swelling and soreness. 1 teaspoon of salt should be dissolved in 1 cup of warm water. Swish/rinse the salt water and spit it out.
So, can you eat after a root canal? The answer is yes, but you should be mindful of what you eat and avoid putting too much pressure on the treated tooth. Stick to soft foods for the first few days and gradually introduce harder foods as you feel comfortable.
Dr. Anu Isaac, DMD, runs a successful dental practice in Salem, MA. Dr. Isaac strives for quality on a daily basis and this commitment to quality is reflected in her constant pursuit of advanced training. Her firm belief that even experts need to stay updated about what’s new in the dental field, enables her to provide every patient with optimal oral care. As the founder of Coral Dental Care, she is dedicated to creating healthy, beautiful smiles for her patients and also to educating dental and non-dental community with her engaging articles on all things related to oral health, recent dental innovations, and latest treatment modalities.