Important Foods to Eat After Root Canal Therapy

Don’t you have any clue about the choice of foods after a root canal procedure? Worry not! Stick to this blog till the end to get valuable insights into what you can eat following endodontic treatment. 

Your dentist usually recommends root canals when the pulps inside teeth get infected, causing excruciating pain and discomfort. The procedure involves drilling a small hole in the affected tooth and clearing out the vessels that are inflamed. Remember, you can still have sensitivity issues due to the dental fillings applied to seal the drilled portion. Hence, you need to be mindful of your diet after undergoing root canal therapy.

Post-Root Canal Nutrition: Best Food Choices for Recovery

Some great food options that can nourish your dental health after a root canal procedure include the following: 

Gentle Nourishment: Soft Fruit Selection

Unless the numbness goes away, many patients don’t feel the urge to consume a proper meal. However, to ensure that your tooth heals following a root canal, you can eat fruits that are easier to eat. 

Strawberries, peaches, mangos, and bananas are rich in vitamins and minerals, which you can consume to heal your mouth. It’s best to cut them into small pieces or consume them by preparing a smoothie to reduce the bite force. 

Cooked to Perfection: Vegetable Choices for Healing

Having a root canal performed on your tooth doesn’t mean eliminating vegetables from your diet. Yes, the nutritional value that some veggies can add can’t be replaced with any other foods. From making your immune system stronger to quickly healing the site, perfectly cooked vegetables can be bliss. 

When it comes to weighing your vegetable choices, you can try finely chopped and steamed riced cauliflower, broccoli, or zucchini. Mashed potatoes are an all-time favorite and an easy-to-prepare vegetable dish, making your healing process a smooth experience. 

Calcium Boost: Dairy Choices for Post-Treatment

Unless you are lactose intolerant, dairy products can be a great choice for foods right after endodontic therapy. Many dentists recommend eating low-fat desserts, ice cream, or yogurt to prevent bleeding and promote a soothing experience. 

During the initial few hours or days post root canal procedure, you must refrain from chewing or keep it minimal. This is when you can have cottage or soft cheeses and milkshakes to give a calcium boost to your teeth. 

Energy Essentials: Recovery-Promoting Carbohydrates

Some of the healthier meal options during the recovery phase of root canals include foods that are rich in carbohydrates. To regain your energy levels without putting much stress on your teeth, include carbs in your diet plan.  

There are many options when it comes to carbohydrates for quick root canal recovery. You can start with scrambled eggs, oat meals, couscous, thin pasta, soft pancakes, pasta, and applesauce. 

Aftercare Recommendations for Root Canal Treatment

Below are some simple-to-follow instructions that dentists often advise following an endodontic treatment.

• Try eating foods on the side opposite to the root canal or not numb, minimizing pain and maximizing comfort. 
• Completely avoid hard or sticky foods that may require you to chew them properly or can stick to your teeth.
• It’s best to give up drinking and eating hot drinks, beverages, and foods, which may trigger teeth sensitivity.
• At least try not to smoke or drink alcohol for the next few weeks following root canals. Otherwise, it can slow down your recovery process.
• Brush your teeth very slowly and gently to avoid any further damage, ensuring the filling material is left intact. 

Root canal therapy is essential at times to save a tooth from permanent loss and safeguard oral health. If you want the site to heal quickly, maintaining certain dietary restrictions as instructed by your dentist can help. Practice eating foods that are gentle on teeth and gums, ensuring speedy recovery after root canals. 

You can follow the nutritional and aftercare guidance provided here to keep your teeth and mouth functional following endodontic therapy. Otherwise, get personalized recommendations on important foods and drinks from your dentist or endodontist.