Did you recently receive a root canal treatment? Root canal treatment is a specialized procedure to remove an infected or inflamed nerve from the tooth. In many instances, this relatively pain-free treatment can help save your tooth from being extracted. While your endodontist may have successfully performed the root canal treatment in the dental chair, it is equally important for patients to ensure that the tooth recovers properly by following best practices when it comes to eating.

Continue reading to learn more about when and what to eat after your root canal treatment.

When to eat

Upon completion of the root canal procedure, your endodontist will typically place a temporary filling to seal the tooth. This temporary filling will protect your tooth until you’re able to see your family dentist for the permanent filling and crown. As it takes approximately one hour for the temporary filling to completely set, eating should be avoided for a minimum of one hour following the procedure.

Furthermore, your teeth and gums will most likely feel numb after completing the root canal treatment. Endodontists will recommend waiting a few hours until you no longer feel numb before eating. Avoiding this precaution may result in accidentally biting your tongue or cheek without realizing the pain due to numbness.

What to eat

Start by eating soft foods that are not difficult to chew. Try including other foods and drinks as your tooth and gums begin to feel less sore.

Some great examples of food to eat after a root canal treatment include:

  • Mashed potatoes
  • Cooked vegetables
  • Rice
  • Scrambled eggs
  • Soups
  • Pasta
  • Soft cheese
  • Yogurt
  • Bananas
  • Apple sauce

What to avoid

Naturally, you want to avoid eating foods that are hard or sticky. These foods will require you to chew a lot and may damage the temporary filling on your recently treated tooth. Furthermore, your tooth and gums can still be sensitive to extremely hot or cold foods and drinks. As your tooth recovers, you will be the best judge to gauge how to reintroduce these into your diet.

Here are some examples of foods to avoid:

  • Nuts
  • Seeds
  • Candy
  • Gum
  • Caramel
  • Steak
  • Crusty bread
  • Pretzels
  • Chips
  • Very hot or cold foods or drinks

York Hill Endodontics is here to help!

Are you looking for an endodontist in Toronto? York Hill Endodontics has served the Toronto area for more than 60 years! Feel free to contact our team by clicking here or calling 416-781-5251 if you have questions about root canal treatment.