A root canal is a dental treatment aimed at repairing a damaged tooth by removing infected or decayed tissue from its interior, sealing the canals, and restoring the tooth with a crown.
While root canals are routine outpatient procedures, many people are uncertain about the proper aftercare, particularly when it comes to the question, “When can I eat after a root canal?”
Keep reading to learn more about the ideal timing and food choices following a root canal.
When Can I Eat After Root Canal?
You can generally eat 30 to 45 minutes after a root canal, giving the temporary filling time to set. However, it’s recommended to wait until the numbness wears off to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue.
Eating while still numb can lead to unintentional bites on your cheek, tongue, or lip, which may cause pain or injury. Once the numbness subsides, you’ll have better awareness of your mouth, allowing you to chew more cautiously and avoid putting excess pressure on the treated tooth.
Foods to Eat After a Root Canal
As long as you avoid using the treated tooth to chew, you can enjoy soft foods without discomfort.
Here’s a selection of soft foods to help you build balanced meals that won’t irritate the treated area:
Protein Rich Foods 
Eggs
Hummus
Meatloaf
Canned tuna
Tofu
Peanut butter
Beans
Foods Rich in Fats
Yogurt
Avocado
Soft cheese
Cottage cheese
Fruits & Vegetable Options
Applesauce
Smoothies
Soup
Mangoes
Pears
Bananas
Baked sweet potato
Pureed winter squash
Mashed potatoes
Grains 
Soft bread
Couscous
Oatmeal
Quinoa
Polenta
Pasta
Foods to Avoid After a Root Canal
Not sure which foods to avoid after a root canal?
Here’s a quick list of foods to steer clear of after a root canal:
- Avoid hard and sticky foods that could dislodge a temporary crown or put a strain on the treated area.
- Stay away from extremely hot or cold foods and drinks, as they might worsen sensitivity in your gums or teeth.
- Avoid crunchy foods like carrots, corn on the cob, or apples, as they may damage the tooth or cause discomfort.
- Stay away from chewy foods like gum, certain breads, or candy such as taffy, as they could dislodge the temporary filling.
- Refrain from hard foods like ice or nuts, as they may harm the tooth or cause unnecessary pain.
- It’s best to avoid alcohol, as it can increase bleeding.
- Avoid foods that are excessively hot, as they may heighten sensitivity.
- Also, steer clear of spicy foods, as they may cause discomfort or increased sensitivity.
How to Comfortably Eat After a Root Canal
- Wait for Numbness to Subside: Avoid eating until the anesthesia wears off to prevent unintentionally biting your cheek, tongue, or lip.
- Choose Soft Foods: Begin with easy-to-chew options like yogurt, applesauce, or mashed potatoes that won’t put pressure on the treated tooth.
- Chew on the Opposite Side: To reduce strain on the treated area, chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
- Cut Food into Smaller Pieces: Cutting food into smaller, manageable bites helps ease chewing and lowers the risk of irritation.
- Opt for Lukewarm Foods: Choose foods at a moderate temperature to avoid hot or cold extremes that could trigger sensitivity.
- Avoid Sticky or Hard Foods: Stay away from foods like caramel, gum, or nuts, as they can stick to or damage the treated tooth.
- Sip Liquids Slowly: If your mouth remains sensitive, opt for small sips of liquid instead of large gulps to make drinking more comfortable.
- Use Pain Relief if Necessary: If discomfort continues, consider using an over-the-counter pain reliever, but consult your dentist for the best options.
Bonus Recovery Tips
In addition to providing general advice on when and what to eat after a root canal, your dentist may offer further recommendations, such as:
- Continue brushing your teeth as usual to maintain good oral hygiene.
- Avoid flossing near a temporary crown to prevent it from loosening or getting damaged.
- To reduce inflammation, rinse with salt water three times a day by dissolving 1/2 teaspoon of salt in warm water, swishing it around for a minute, and then spitting it out.
- If antibiotics are prescribed to prevent infection, be sure to complete the entire course as directed to reduce the risk of infection returning.
Conclusions
While giving your mouth time to heal after a root canal is important, you can typically eat within 30 to 45 minutes once the temporary filling has been set. However, it’s best to wait until the numbness wears off to avoid accidentally injuring your cheek, tongue, or lip.
Opt for soft, easy-to-chew foods in the initial days and avoid hard, sticky, or excessively hot foods that could disrupt the healing process.
By following your dentist’s post-treatment instructions and making mindful food choices, you can support a smooth recovery and help ensure the treated area heals comfortably.
Need Answers After Your Root Canal?
The dentists at Hardy Smiles in Louisburg, NJ can give you the necessary guidance after your root canal, along with tips on what and when you can eat after a root canal.
Schedule your consultation today.
FAQs
Can I eat hot or cold food after a root canal?
It’s best to avoid hot or cold foods immediately after your root canal, as they may trigger sensitivity in the treated area. Opt for foods at a moderate temperature to prevent discomfort.
Can I drink liquids after a root canal?
You can drink liquids, but avoid hot or sugary drinks immediately after the procedure. Opt for lukewarm water or non-acidic beverages.
How long should I wait to eat normally after a root canal?
You can return to eating normal foods once your mouth feels comfortable, but avoid hard or crunchy items for the first few days to prevent strain on the treated tooth.
Can I chew on the treated tooth?
Avoid chewing directly on the treated tooth until the procedure is fully complete and the permanent crown is placed to avoid damaging it or causing discomfort.
