After getting a root canal, it’s important to choose the right foods. Your mouth requires time to heal. Hence, eating the wrong things could backfire. To make your recovery smooth and easy, you will want to stick to soft and gentle foods. The foods need to be of a nature that does not irritate your treated tooth. The food should not even put too much pressure on it.
Let’s dive into some safe options for foods that you can eat after your procedure is done.
Guide On When To Eat After Root Canal
After Root Canal treatment, it becomes important to be careful about when and what you eat. This ensures that your mouth heals properly. Generally, you have to wait until the numbness from the anesthesia wears off. This helps you avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. It is usually best to wait at least a few hours after the procedure before you start eating. Your dentist will give you specific instructions, but sticking to soft and bland foods initially can prevent any discomfort.
Once the numbness is gone, you can start with easy-to-eat foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, or soup. Avoid having anything too hot or too cold. These can cause discomfort in your treated area. It is also a good idea to steer clear of hard, sticky and crunchy foods. As they might put too much pressure on the treated tooth or get stuck in the area. Following these guidelines will help ensure that your root canal heals smoothly and comfortably.
The best foods to eat after Root Canal treatment are – yogurt, bananas, rice, sorbet, puddings and soft breads.
Best Practices Post Procedure
Here is a list of some of the best practices that you need to follow post-procedure:
Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions
Your dentist will provide specific aftercare instructions. This also includes how to care for the treated site. You need to make sure to follow these guidelines closely.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Keep your mouth clean by brushing your teeth gently twice a day. Also, remember to floss daily. Be cautious around the treated area to avoid irritation. Make use of an antibacterial mouthwash. This will keep your mouth clean. It will also reduce the risk of infection.
Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods
For the first few days, stick to soft foods and avoid anything hard. Foods that are sticky, hard and chewy can damage the temporary filling or cause discomfort.
Manage Pain and Swelling
It’s normal to experience some discomfort or swelling after a root canal. OTC pain relievers can help manage this. Follow your dentist’s recommendations for dosages and medications. Applying a cold compress to the outside of your face will also reduce swelling.
Schedule Your Follow-Up Appointment
Do not forget to schedule and attend your follow-up visit with the dentist. This is important to ensure that the tooth is healing properly. They will also plan the placement of your permanent crown.
Avoid Smoking/Alcohol
Alcohol and smoking are two substances which can interfere with the healing process. They might also increase the risk of complications. Try to avoid these until your mouth has completely healed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here is a list of a few frequently asked questions about the topic:
How Long Do Root Canals Last?
A root canal is a dental procedure that saves an infected/damaged tooth. After the process gets done they last for a long time. They can last for a lot more than ten years. If you take good care of the tooth then they can last even longer. A tooth that has had a Root Canal stays functional and healthy for a very long time.
Is Root Canal Painful?
Many people worry that root canals are painful. The reality however is a lot different. During the procedure, the dentist uses local anesthesia to numb the area. This should not make you feel any pain. After the numbness wears off, you can experience some mild pain or discomfort but this is usually manageable with painkillers.
Overall, Root Canals are not more painful than getting a tooth filled. They are designed to relieve pain caused by damage and infection in your tooth. Most people find that the pain before the procedure is more uncomfortable than the procedure itself.
What Is The Healing Process Of the Root Canal?
Post root-canal treatment, the tooth and surrounding area needs time to heal. In the days following it, the tooth feels sore as it adjusts to the treatment. This discomfort gradually decreases over time. A full recovery from it takes about a few weeks during which the teeth remain sensitive. Sometimes a crown and other restoration are also needed for protecting and restoring the tooth.
Conclusion,
By choosing the right foods after a Root Canal treatment, you can ensure a comfortable recovery. This will ensure that your mouth heals well before getting a permanent crown. Stick to only gentle and soft foods that won’t irritate the treated area. You also need to avoid anything too cold, hot, sticky and hard.
You must listen to your dentist’s advice, as that will help you in healing your mouth properly. This will also make the transition to your permanent crown smoother. Taking these steps is going to make your recovery easier. They will also help you in getting back to enjoying your favorite foods sooner. For personalized care and expert guidance, schedule your consultation with Dr. Tandon’s Dental Clinic today!