What to Eat After a Root Canal: Safe Foods for a Smooth Recovery

Reviewed by Dr. Gary Morris, DDS

Reading time: five minutes.

You just had a root canal—now what? While your tooth is on the mend, your next big decision is what to eat. The right foods can soothe soreness, protect your tooth, and promote healing, while the wrong ones can cause irritation or even set back your recovery.

This blog will walk you through the best foods to eat, what to avoid, and tips for making mealtime easy while you heal.

What Is a Root Canal and Why Is Aftercare Important?

A root canal procedure is a dental treatment that removes infected or damaged dental pulp inside the tooth.

The infected pulp is carefully cleaned out, and the inside of the tooth is filled and sealed to protect against future infection. You may have a temporary filling or temporary crown until a permanent crown is placed. 

Learn more about dental crowns in this blog: Can You Get a Crown Without a Root Canal?

After a root canal, the tooth may feel sensitive. Proper nutrition helps the healing process and reduces oral health concerns like irritation, bad breath, or lingering pain.

There is a lot of misinformation about root canals. Learn more about the safety of this procedure here: Are Root Canals Safe? Get the Facts Here

Best Foods to Eat After a Root Canal

Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods that do not irritate or stress the tooth. Choose options that are gentle, nourishing, and promote healing.

1. Soft Proteins: Keep your protein intake high for tissue healing.

• Chicken broth or vegetable soup: Warm (not hot) liquids are easy on the mouth.
• Canned tuna or canned salmon: A soft, nutritious source of protein that does not require much chewing.
• Nut butters (like peanut butter or almond butter): Spread on soft bread or mix into smoothies.

2. Well-Cooked Vegetables: Packed with vitamins and fiber.

• Mashed potatoes: A classic comfort food that is filling and gentle.
• Cauliflower mash: A smooth-textured alternative to mashed potatoes.
• Steamed carrots or pureed winter squash: Ensure the vegetables are soft and thoroughly cooked.

3. Soft Fruits: Add nutrients without irritating your healing tooth.

• Fruit smoothies with soft fruits like bananas, mangoes, or berries blended with yogurt.
• Mangoes with yogurt: A delicious, creamy combination.
• Applesauce or soft berries: These are easy to consume and gentle on the tooth.

4. Soft Dairy Products: Gentle on sensitive teeth.

• Soft cheeses like cottage cheese or cream cheese.
• Frozen yogurt: A soothing option if you experience a bit of discomfort.
• Protein shakes made with yogurt or milk can provide extra nutrients.

5. Soft Grains and Carbs: Provide energy without stressing the tooth.

• Cream of wheat or oatmeal: Warm, soft cereals that are easy to swallow.
• Soft bread without crust, preferably moist or dipped in a liquid base like broth.
• Sweet potatoes: Mashed or baked until soft.

What Not To Eat After a Root Canal

Avoid foods that can irritate the area or cause damage to the healing tooth:

• Sticky foods: Chewy candy, sticky candy, and anything that sticks to teeth
• Crunchy foods: Raw carrots, nuts, crusty bread, or raw vegetables like celery
• Tough meats: Steak or other fibrous meats
• Hot foods and beverages: May cause irritation
• Spicy foods: Hot peppers, spicy toppings, or heavily seasoned dishes
• Acidic foods: Citrus fruits like oranges or lemons can trigger sensitivity
• Carbonated drinks: Can irritate the area and harm oral health

Sample 3-Day Soft Food Diet for Recovery

Here is a three-day soft food diet to speed up your recovery.

Day 1: Comfort and Healing

Breakfast: Oatmeal with mashed bananas and a drizzle of honey (optional).
Lunch: Chicken and vegetable soup with shredded chicken and well-cooked carrots.
Dinner: Mashed potatoes topped with soft, shredded beef in light gravy and a side of steamed spinach.

Snack options: Yogurt or applesauce.

Day 2: Adding Protein and Fiber

Breakfast: Cream of wheat topped with soft blueberries.
Lunch: Soft bread with shredded chicken and light mayonnaise, served with a small side of cooked sweet potatoes.
Dinner: Slow-cooked beef stew with tender, shredded meat, soft potatoes, and carrots (ensure all ingredients are well-cooked).

Snack options: A protein shake or fruit smoothie.

Day 3: Variety for Balance

Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with soft cheese.
Lunch: Vegetable soup with pureed winter squash and soft chunks of chicken.
Dinner: Shredded turkey or chicken over soft cauliflower mash, with a side of steamed carrots.

Snack options: Frozen yogurt or cottage cheese.

How Long Does Recovery Take After a Root Canal?

Recovery time varies based on the complexity of the root canal treatment.

For most, the discomfort lasts only a few days. During this time, you should follow detailed aftercare instructions from your dentist.

After about one week, you can gradually return to your normal diet. However, always avoid tough meat, sticky foods, or crunchy foods until your dentist clears you.

You might wonder: What Happens When a Root Canal Fails? Treatment Options Explained

Additional Tips for a Smooth Recovery

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to flush food particles and stay hydrated.
• Avoid alcohol and carbonated drinks: Avoid for at least one week, as they can delay healing and irritate the treated area.
• Maintain oral hygiene: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and rinse with warm water to keep your mouth clean.
• Follow-up appointments: Ensure your permanent crown or dental crown is properly fitted.
• Monitor discomfort: If pain persists, consult your dentist for medical advice.

Schedule Your Follow-Up Appointment

After root canal therapy, proper nutrition and aftercare are key to a successful recovery.

If you experience prolonged discomfort or need assistance with root canal aftercare, contact Morris Dental Solutions today.To book an appointment at our dental office in Buffalo Grove, IL, call (847) 215-1511 or visit us at 195 N. Arlington Heights Rd., Suite 160, Buffalo Grove, IL.