It's crucial to be prepared for any dental procedure. You need to know what to expect from the procedure, how much you should expect to pay, and the recommended aftercare, including what you should eat. The same is true for a root canal. You will have special dietary considerations for a short time following a root canal procedure.
What to Eat After Root Canal Therapy
Dental patients facing a root canal should create a complete list of the best kinds of foods to eat when they recover from the procedure. From this approved list, you can pick and choose your favorites, making sure you are well-stocked before actually undergoing the procedure. You should also keep up your nutritional requirements for a healthier body and to aid in a quicker recovery.
Soft foods are the overarching theme of your diet after a root canal; however, hot and spicy foods should be avoided. Here is a suggested list of food ideas you can eat while recovering from root canal therapy:
- Smoothies, yogurt, ice cream and milkshakes
- Soups, soft salads, mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese
- Eggs, milk, cream of wheat and pancakes
- Bananas, mangos, pears, and peaches
- Applesauce, pudding, and hummus
Other Things to Avoid After a Root Canal
In addition to eating the right type of diet, there are a few actions patients should avoid after having root canal therapy. These include the following:
- Avoid brushing your teeth too roughly. Instead, brush slowly and carefully around the entire mouth. Be extra gentle around the treated tooth area, as other non-treated teeth still need proper dental care.
- Avoid chewing on the side of the mouth where the root canal was performed until your dentist has placed the dental crown.
- Avoid drinking alcohol for at least three weeks post-procedure.
- Avoid smoking after root canal therapy. This is imperative for a successful recovery. If you have difficulty with this step, be sure to seek help and resources from your dental provider.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals
How Long Does a Root Canal Take?
Root canals typically only require one visit to the dentist and, most of the time, don't take more than two hours to complete. However, if your problem is severe, you might require at least two visits to the dentist to complete.
Do I Need a Root Canal if the Tooth Isn't Painful?
If your tooth is decaying or decayed and is left untreated, it will likely make matters worse as the decay will spread to other teeth. If you wait until you are experiencing substantial pain, you might need a root canal on more than one tooth. Unfortunately, this will also cost you more money than if you had taken care of it much earlier.
Call Fabey Dental Studios Root Canals in Easton, PA
If you need a root canal or think you might need one, the skilled dental providers at Fabey Dental Studios are here for you. Call our Easton, PA office at 610-810-2704 to schedule an appointment today.