Root Canal Recovery Tips: What to Eat, Avoid, and Expect
Root canal treatment is often feared, but recovery is usually straightforward — and knowing what to expect makes a big difference.
Root canal treatment is often feared, but in reality recovery is usually straightforward. Modern anaesthetics and techniques mean the procedure itself is comfortable, and most patients return to normal activities the same day.
What to Expect After Treatment
Some tenderness and mild discomfort around the treated tooth for 2–3 days after your appointment is entirely normal. This is due to inflammation in the surrounding tissue, not to damage. Over-the-counter pain relief such as ibuprofen or paracetamol will manage this effectively for most patients.
What to Eat (and What to Avoid)
- Good choices: Soft foods such as yogurt, soup, scrambled eggs, mashed potato and pasta are ideal in the first 24–48 hours.
- Avoid: Hard, crunchy or chewy foods until a permanent restoration has been placed, as the treated tooth is more vulnerable without a crown.
- Avoid: Extremely hot or cold foods and drinks while the area is still sensitive.
If you experience severe pain, significant swelling or a high temperature following treatment, please contact us straight away on 01243 771171 as these may indicate a complication requiring attention.
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