What to Eat and What to Avoid After Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy is a routine dental operation that saves an infected or badly damaged tooth. Although the treatment eliminates pain and restores function, good post-operative care is paramount for untroubled recovery. Your diet is one of the most vital components of getting better. Ingesting healthy foods can heal and even avoid discomfort, while unhealthy choices may lead to irritation or worse.

If you’ve recently had a root canal, you may ask yourself – what can you eat and what not to eat? This blog will assist you with making intelligent food choices to ensure a comfortable recovery.

What are the Foods to Eat After Root Canal Therapy?

Following a root canal, your tooth will probably be sensitive, and the area around it may be a little swollen. Eating soft, healthy foods will prevent putting unnecessary pressure on your tooth without depriving it of the necessary nutrients for recovery.

Soft and Easy-to-Chew Foods

• Mashed potatoes
• Scrambled eggs
• Applesauce
• Yogurt
• Soft bread
• Oatmeal

These are soft on your teeth and will not need much chewing, thus avoiding irritation.

Nutritious and Healing Options

• Cooked vegetables (carrots, squash, zucchini)
• Soft fruits (bananas, avocados, peaches)
• Protein-rich foods (tofu, fish, soft chicken, cottage cheese)

These contain the essential vitamins and proteins that facilitate tissue repair and quicker recovery.

Hydrating and Soothing Liquids

• Water
• Herbal teas
• Lukewarm soups
• Smoothies (without seeds or hard bits)

Hydration helps in healing, and warm liquids comfort the treated area.

What are the Foods to Avoid After Root Canal Therapy?

While some foods assist in recovery, others will decelerate the healing process or even cause pain. Below are foods to shun after root canal therapy:

Hard and Crunchy Foods

• Nuts
• Chips
• Popcorn
• Raw vegetables

These foods involve excessive chewing and may exert force on the treated tooth, raising the possibility of pain or damage.

Sticky and Chewy Foods

• Caramel
• Chewing gum
• Dried fruits
• Taffy

Sticky foods will pull on any temporary fillings and can stick in crevices. This leads to the potential for bacterial growth.

Extremely Hot or Cold Foods

• Ice cream
• Hot coffee or tea
• Hot soups

Extreme temperature has the potential to cause sensitivity in the treated tooth. Thus, it is better to avoid these food items. 

Sugary and Acidic Foods

• Candy
• Soda
• Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, limes)
• Tomato-based foods

Sugar encourages bacterial growth in your mouth, while acidic foods have the potential to irritate and impede healing after a root canal.

Spicy or Irritating Foods

• Hot peppers
• Chili-based sauces
• Spicy snacks

If you have sensitive gum, these spicy foods can cause terrible irritation to your treated area. 

Additional Post-Treatment Care Tips

• Chew on the opposite side: This avoids applying pressure to the treated tooth during the healing process.
• Avoid using a straw: Suction can develop pressure in your mouth and potentially hinder healing after a root canal.
• Practice gentle oral hygiene: Brush gently with a soft toothbrush and steer clear of vigorous rinsing.
• Take your dentist’s advice: If you are advised to avoid certain foods or follow specific aftercare instructions, do so for optimal results.

What you eat in your diet after having a root canal greatly affects your recovery. Thus, it is advised to stick to soft, nutrient-rich foods to support smooth and faster healing. Stay away from hard foods for the time being. Take care of these two things, and gradually, you will be back to your regular routine. 

If you experience prolonged discomfort after a root canal, schedule an appointment with our trusted dentist.