After a root canal, you may experience minor soreness and discomfort as the tooth settles. For a few days after your procedure, you will feel more comfortable eating a softer diet, avoiding hard, crunchy, and sticky foods.
Diet Suggestions After a Root Canal
Following are several choices you may want to consider in the first day or two when recovering from your root canal:
- Soups: pureed or soft pieces
- Smoothies
- Yogurt
- Ice cream
- Soft scrambled eggs
- Mashed potatoes
- Pasta
The following foods may cause discomfort:
- Popcorn, nuts, and seeds
- Spicy foods
- Chewy foods (steak, etc.)
- Crunchy foods (apples, chips)
- Sticky foods and candy may dislodge your temporary filling or crown
Avoid chewing on the side where you had the root canal for about a week or until your permanent restoration.
When to Call Your Dentist After a Root Canal
The most important thing to remember is that if you have dental pain or sensitivity that lasts more than a few days or gets worse, you should call your dentist. Root canals usually relieve pain, but if you are not getting better, there could be an issue.
Call your dentist if you have swelling and inflammation in the gums or soft tissue near the tooth. Finally, call the dentist immediately if you feel ill or have a fever or chills.
About Temporary Crowns
If your dentist provides a temporary crown after your procedure, be aware that these appliances are less durable than permanent crowns. They may fall out and need to be recemented. Avoid crunchy, sticky, or hard foods until your permanent restoration.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals
What are the signs that I may need a root canal?
- Painful toothache, especially if it is sensitive to pressure or temperature
- Tooth pain that comes and goes
- Gum or soft tissue swelling
- Pus along the gum line
- Swollen pimple-like growth on the gum
- Fever or chills
- Loose tooth
- Discolored tooth (gray or black)
Can I get a filling after a root canal, or must I get a crown?
Sometimes, a filling is enough to protect a tooth treated with a root canal. However, teeth with crowns last longer and perform better than teeth with fillings alone. Teeth with crowns are less likely to allow contaminants like food or bacteria in the treated root canal, leaving fewer openings for recurring infections.
Call Suwanee Family Dentistry
Root canals relieve pain, preserve teeth, and restore normal chewing ability. They are economical compared to the cost of extracting and replacing a damaged tooth. After you undergo a root canal, your tooth and gums may feel slightly tender and sore. Taking care of your teeth may involve altering your diet for comfort.
If you have any other questions about root canal recovery, please call our Suwanee, GA, office at 678-714-2380.