It is common to think about the dos and don’ts of root canals and be prepared for what’s coming post-procedure. We understand if you are concerned about whether or not you can enjoy your favorite meal without worries and when you can delve into delicacies. Well, you can eat after getting a root canal procedure, but not right away. The time right after your procedure is crucial, and you must be careful with your mouth. Let’s get into the details regarding post-op meals.
Eating After a Root Canal
You can start eating about 30 to 45 minutes later. This time span allows the temporary filling to harden in place fully.
However, our expert, Dr. Aditi Gupta, generally recommends waiting until the anesthesia completely wears off to avoid accidental cheek biting or tongue cuts.
Recovering from a root canal is different from other oral surgeries. It is easy to return to your daily routine, be it work or school, almost right after the procedure. However, you must remain vigilant when it comes to your mouth and keep in mind that your treated tooth might be sensitive for a few days.
Finally, maintain proper oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing to keep the treated area free of debris and plaque.
Foods to Eat After a Root Canal
Fortunately, you can enjoy multiple soft foods without having the fear of irritating your treated tooth. Here is a list of foods that can help you put together a well-balanced meal:
Eggs
Canned tuna
Hummus
Tofu
Meatloaf
Mashed potatoes
Baked sweet potato
Pureed winter squash
Pasta
Polenta
Soft bread
Peanut butter
Applesauce
Smoothies
Bananas
Mangos
Pears
Foods to Avoid Eating After Getting a Root Canal
While you munch on these soft foods with pleasure, steer clear of those that might damage your temporary filling or irritate your sensitive tooth. Do not indulge in foods that are:
Extremely hot and/or very cold foods and drinks
Sticky items like gum and candy
Chewy foods such as crusty sourdough bread or tough cuts of meat
Hard foods like nuts
Crunchy foods like pretzels and chips
You might be thinking about when it would be safe to eat these foods again. Well, once your permanent crown or final restoration is complete, you shall return to your regular diet with some caution.
Aftercare Tips
Here are some essential aftercare tips to keep in mind:
Always talk to your dentist for the best aftercare plan tailored to your specific needs.
After your root canal, wait until your mouth is no longer numb, which usually takes a few hours before you start eating. This will help you avoid biting your cheek or tongue and eating foods that are too hot or cold.
Closing Note
Eating regime after a root canal is not rocket science. Following these guidelines and aftercare tips makes the process smooth for a speedy recovery. Talk to one of our dental care experts from Ace Dental of Temple for more details and insights on what we have in store for you.