Dentist Root Canal Recovery Tips: What to Eat and Avoid

Root canal is an extensively used and very popular dental treatment that is aimed at disinfecting an infected tooth and restoring its proper functionality. While the treatment is very effective, it is often the last resort to revive a tooth. Generally, dentists recommend it when there are no other options left that are effective enough to treat a tooth infection. This means it is an advanced-level surgical treatment. Though being a surgical treatment, it is greatly effective, the recovery also needs quite some time. If you have already got the treatment done, or are about to get it, and are wondering what you can eat and avoid post getting it, then this article is for you. Here, we will tell you all you need to know about root canal recovery, as well as tips and tricks backed by root canal dentists that can make the healing process easier and faster. Read till the end to find out.

Understanding Root Canal Recovery: What to Expect

Root canal recovery is the period of healing that is required once the treatment is done. As per the dentist for a root canal, the first 24 hours are critical and need extra care. During this time, you may feel extreme pain, sensitivity, or tenderness in your teeth, which is quite normal. Within a couple of days, or a week at most, all these aftereffects normally go away on their own, and you feel so much better. However, if proper care is not provided to the teeth, it can prolong the healing period and result in many other complications as well.

The First 24 Hours: Immediate Post-Procedure Care

The first 24 hours after the treatment require you to be extra careful. During this time, you may feel that the numbness of local anesthesia starts fading away. This can make you experience sudden, sharp pain. Do not panic. It's nothing to worry about, and is totally normal. To ease the pain, you can use a cold compress or an icepack. You can also use any other painkillers that your root canal dentist recommends.

Make sure to only eat soft foods in small quantities to prevent your teeth from putting extra effort in chewing. If the pain persists or becomes unbearable, do not delay and immediately reach out to a root canal dentist near me. They will examine your teeth and check for signs of potential complications before it gets too late.

Soft Foods to Eat After a Root Canal

Generally, a dentist for root canal provides all the necessary guidelines regarding what food to eat and what to avoid, once the treatment is done. However, if you need guidance, it's exactly what we are here for.

After getting the root canal therapy done, expert dentists for root canal therapy suggest that the patient only eat soft foods that are easy to chew and digest. Mashed potatoes, yogurt, scrambled eggs, oatmeal, and lentils are some of the easy-to-chew yet filling options that you can opt for. During recovery, you should also incorporate fruits that are rich in vitamin A, C, and zinc, such as kiwi, strawberry, guava, and citrus fruits, to ensure that the healing and repair of tissue happen faster.

What Foods to Avoid After a Root Canal

As important as it is to know which foods to eat, you must also know which ones to avoid to ensure a faster recovery. Typically, expert dentists for root canals suggest that you avoid any food that is hard to chew and requires additional effort. This is particularly the case with nuts, chips, candies, etc. Also, you must avoid eating foods that are too spicy as they can cause irritation and may lead to an infection in the treated area. Moreover, root canal dentists also recommend that you avoid eating sugary foods as they can be sticky and lead to decay.

Hydration and Beverage Guidelines

During the healing process, you must remain hydrated and consume as many drinks as you can. Drink enough amount of water, about 8 glasses per day, as it helps promote healing and assists you to recover faster. Root canal dentists suggest that you completely avoid certain beverages, such as caffeine, alcohol, or sodas, as they can prolong the healing process. Always make sure that you drink directly from a cup or a glass and avoid using a straw, as it can put additional pressure on your treated tooth, which can delay healing.

Foods That Promote Faster Healing

Certain foods are rich in nutrients and can help in recovery faster. These include nutrient and vitamin-rich fruits such as bananas, avocados, strawberries, and kiwi. Also, soups and broths can be a great addition to your diet if you are in the healing process. They promote healing, keep you hydrated, and are packed with essential nutrients.

When to Resume a Normal Diet After a Root Canal

As per root canal dentists, you can resume having a normal diet after getting a root canal treatment as soon as 4-5 days. However, it largely depends on the condition of your teeth and the symptoms you are experiencing. If the pain, tenderness, and sensitivity are gone and your teeth are back to their normal functioning, you can resume a normal diet by the end of the first week. Nevertheless, if the pain and other symptoms persist, you should consult a credible root canal dentist near me, such as LiT Dental, and get your teeth examined before beginning a normal diet.

CONCLUSION

Root canal recovery is the period of healing that is required once the treatment is done. After getting the root canal therapy done, expert dentists for root canal therapy suggest that the patient only eat soft foods that are easy to chew and digest. Mashed potatoes, yogurt, scrambled eggs, oatmeal, and lentils are some of the easy-to-chew yet filling options that you can opt for. Remember to stay hydrated and avoid foods that are hard to chew, such as nuts, chips, or candies. To ensure a faster recovery, you can get additional guidelines from a credible root canal dentist, such as LiT Dental.