Post-endodontic surgery care is a crucial step for a fast recovery. Although there are restrictions on what you can eat, things you can do, etc., it all plays a major role in ensuring your oral health is well-maintained. So, even if you have to sacrifice your favorite activities and foods, in the end, it’s all worth it.
Not to mention, after a root canal, dentists usually place a temporary crown over the affected area to avoid infection. Due to this, it might be a little hard to move your mouth initially. It’s also why it greatly matters what you eat after a root canal because the last thing you want to do is irritate the affected area.
How Long After A Root Canal Can You Eat Solid Food?
Dentists typically recommend waiting for at least 30 minutes after the surgery before eating. This allows for the numbness in your gums to fade. Moreover, after the allotted time has passed, you can only eat foods that are soft and easy to swallow.
However, if you want to have a taste of solid food again, you’re going to have to wait for the root canal site to heal completely. Otherwise, you could risk injuring your gums or cheeks. This takes around two weeks as the connective tissues inside your tooth start to heal and the swelling reduces.
What To Eat After Root Canal?
After the root canal treatment, you’ll need to pay strict attention to your diet. Even the smallest particle of the wrong food can setback your recovery period.
For instance, eating hard or crunchy foods will put far too much pressure on your teeth. You could accidentally bite the inside of your cheek, or the food could rupture the sensitive area.
Either way, what matters the most is that you’re able to chew and swallow the food with ease. Even the temperature is important, so make sure you don’t have anything to hold. Lukewarm is the ideal temperature to prevent toothache and sensitivity.
- Scrambled Eggs
- Yogurt
- Smoothie
- Mashed Potatoes
- Shredded or Minced Meat
- Ripe Fruit
- Pasta
- Quinoa
- Saltines
- Soft Cheese
- Smooth Peanut Butter
- Cooked Vegetables
- Hummus
- Lukewarm Soup
- Soft Bread
What Not to Eat After Root Canal?
Now that you know what food is the best to eat after a root canal, it’s just as essential to know what to avoid. Mentioned below are some food items you should steer clear of
- Stay away from sticky or chewy foods.
- Stick to a moderate temperature. Avoid foods and drinks that are too hot or too cold.
- Avoid hard, crispy, and crunchy foods.
- Steer clear of chewing gum for the time being.
- Hold yourself back from consuming anything that is too flakey in texture.
Closing Word
A root canal treatment can be extremely taxing. From what to eat to activities to avoid, there are many things you need to be careful of. Although, as long as you don’t mind experimenting, you can whip up any snack from the ingredients listed above. Just make sure the food you eat is soft and not too hot or chewy. This will ensure your jaw muscles aren’t overworking or clamping shut.
In case of further information, contact Modena Dentistry at (346) 966-3362. Or, to schedule an appointment, drop by our dental office at 6915 Farm to Market 1960 Rd W Suite G, Houston, TX 77069. It’s just a minute’s walk away from the T-Mobile outlet.