Root canal treatment can be very effective in treating an infected tooth, but some people wonder whether it’s safe to eat meat after this procedure or not.
Since meat can contain bacteria that can harm your body, it’s important to learn the answer to this question.
The good news is that you should be able to eat meat after root canal treatment without any risk of negative side effects, as long as you follow a healthy diet plan and maintain good oral hygiene habits.
Overview
A root canal is a dental treatment procedure used to save and restore a severely decayed or infected tooth. After removing the damaged tissue inside of the tooth, a filling and sealant are applied.
One or two dental visits are typically required to complete a root canal. You might need extraction in some circumstances.
Meat is safe to consume when eating normally after receiving a root canal treatment. However, for about 24 hours after the treatment, any food with high sugar content, such as soda pop, should be avoided.
Avoid salty foods like pickles and chips at all costs. Wait until the teeth have finished moving if you have braces before getting a root canal.
Related: Failed Root Canal: Causes and Treatments
When can you eat meat after root canal treatment, and which meat is acceptable?
It’s important to follow a soft food diet for the first few days after your root canal treatment. This means avoiding hard, crunchy, and sticky foods. After a few days, you can start to add more solid foods back into your diet.
Meats are a great source of protein. However, it’s important to choose the right ones. Avoiding tough meats and opting for softer cuts is best. You should also avoid spicy meats and sauces as they can irritate your gums.
The types of meat that are best for your teeth after root canal treatment
- cooked ground beef
- properly cooked boneless pork chops
- cooked ham
- grilled turkey breast
Remember, if any meat has been marinated in hot sauce or teriyaki sauce before cooking, then the heat will cause inflammation on your tooth nerves when eaten.
If you do eat these types of meats, be sure to brush your teeth with anti-inflammatory toothpaste.
What kinds of food can I eat after root canal treatment?
What to eat following a root canal may be on your mind. The good news is that you can eat the majority of different foods. There are a few considerations, though.
Your tooth might have received antibiotic treatment at some point. Avoid eating raw or undercooked meats or fish if this is the case, as these foods may contain bacteria that could upset your stomach and reduce the effectiveness of the antibiotics.
In order for your dentist to know what foods you should avoid while they work on restoring your smile, be sure to discuss any dietary restrictions with them before they complete your treatment.
The vast majority of wholesome foods, however, are generally safe for you to eat after having a root canal. Examples include:
- fruits
- vegetables
- dairy products, particularly low-fat milk
- beans and legumes
- whole grains, like brown rice
- eggs
- tofu
- skinless poultry.
Don’t forget to brush your teeth afterwards! Gum disease has been connected to other severe health issues like diabetes and heart disease.
Related: 10 Most Common Side-Effects of a Root Canal Treatment
What types of protein are best to eat after root canal treatment?
In most cases, there should not be any restrictions on what type of protein you consume after your root canal treatment. However, some people who have diabetes or an allergy to certain meats should avoid these foods while they recover from their dental work.
If you have any questions about your diet following your procedure, discuss them with your dentist for more information.
If you’re curious about how long before you can brush again after root canal treatment, this answer varies depending on the person. Generally speaking, your teeth will be sensitive for at least two weeks following the procedure.
As such, brushing should be avoided during this time in order to allow it to heal fully.
Some dentists recommend using a gauze pad instead of a toothbrush in order to clean teeth during this time period and eliminate any additional pain that could result from brushing too soon after the procedure.
How often should protein be consumed after root canal treatment?
It is recommended that you consume protein at least three times per day after root canal treatment. Eating protein will not only help your body heal but also provide it with essential nutrients that may have been lacking before the root canal treatment.
Eating more protein will also keep your blood sugar levels steady and prevent mood swings from occurring, as well as regulate insulin levels.
The frequency of eating protein varies depending on the individual’s diet, but you should try to get at least 20 grams per meal post-root canal treatment.
If you are lactose intolerant, you should focus on consuming high-quality proteins like soy and whey.
If you are following a vegan diet, you should incorporate plant-based proteins such as nuts and seeds into your diet.
When choosing what type of protein to eat after root canal treatment, it is best to speak to your doctor to make sure there aren’t any restrictions on eating certain types of foods.
Sources:
- Colgate.com
- Healthline
- Montebello Dental Clinic
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