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Can You Eat After Having A Root Canal?

Writer Sarah Silva

You can generally eat after root canal surgery, and sometimes even before. It is important to be aware of a few facts. Root canals are used to remove the infected or inflamed pulp from the tooth. This involves hollowing out the tooth and sometimes removing some of its natural material. If there is sufficient tooth material, the tooth can be sealed with a temporary crown or filling. These are the basics to keep in mind when you decide on your first meal following a root canal.

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  • You can also chew on the opposite side of your mouth. Do not put pressure on the tooth that has been restored.
  • Soft foods
  • Take your time and eat slowly.
  • Small bites are best
  • Avoid hot food and drink

Make sure the numbness is gone before eating. This will stop you from accidentally smacking your lips or tongue without realizing as well as making eating simple. Most people receive only topical or numbing treatments. It is safe to eat before having a root canal. It is best to avoid eating before any type of sedation anesthesia. No matter what type of injections are used or how sedatives are administered, consult your dentist to get their advice. 

Let’s face it; many people use any type of dental work as an excuse to eat comfort food like ice cream or pudding. These sweetened foods are delicious but not very nutritionally balanced. It is best to choose soft foods similar in texture, and that promote healing.

After a root canal, food might be the last thing you think about. Here are nine great foods that will help you eat healthily, heal, and enjoy easy meals when you’re ready.

  1. Soft fruits Please satisfy your sweet tooth by eating ripe bananas, mangoes, and peaches. Smoothies are refreshing and can soothe a sore throat. If you feel hungry, fruit smoothies can be eaten immediately following a root canal. Avoid using straws during this time.
  2. Mashed vegetable: White potatoes, sweet potatoes, and cauliflower all have B12 which can speed up healing. For an increase in bone-building calcium, add cheddar cheese.
  3. Soup: Creamed soups can be served hot (not cold). They are satisfying, filling, and nutritious.
  4. Pasta: Pasta is well-cooked and served with a creamy tomato sauce. It contains healing antioxidants that promote healing and fight infection.
  5. Pancakes: Breakfast for dinner? Yes! Easy to make and great for days after root canal treatment, pancakes are great! For the best health, use fresh applesauce and peanut butter in place of syrup.
  6. Hummus This creamy chickpea dip is full of healing protein. You can spread it on pita or soft bread once you’re ready.
  7. eggs: eggs are filling, delicious, and easy to prepare after a root canal. Even omelets can be made with soft-cooked veggies and cheese or a frittata using potatoes.
  8. Polenta – Polenta is a finely-ground grit that can be mixed with cheese and soft veggies to make a satisfying and hearty post-root canal meal.
  9. Cold liquids: Although it is technically not food, cool, noncarbonated drinks can soothe and aid in healing. Water is the best. Avoid high-acidic drinks (e.g. orange juice) as they can sting sensitive tissue in the mouth.

Drinking from a straw following root canal treatment will prevent the formation of clots. It is important to avoid sucking motions, such as using a straw or smoking, after wisdom tooth extraction. You can read more. After a root canal, the main dangers to solid food are a pain when you chew, bite your tongue or lips, and dislodging temporary restorations. You can usually eat solid food once the anesthesia wears off. You should be able to chew small, slow bites on the side opposite your root canal.