Is Ice Cream Good After Root Canal Treatment?

When your enamel is damaged due to trauma or erosion, the tooth’s underlying structures, like the dentin and pulp, are exposed to bacteria and external factors, leading to pain, infection, and inflammation. A root canal is often necessary if decay or infection has reached the tooth’s pulp, which hosts the tooth’s blood vessels, nerves, and other tissue.

Root canal therapy entails removing the infected or inflamed pulp and sealing the tooth to stop the infection and save the tooth. Like many people, you might wonder whether eating your favorite ice cream after your treatment is safe. This article discusses whether ice cream can be eaten after root canal treatment, its benefits, and tips for choosing the right ice cream.

Pros and Cons of Taking Ice Cream after Root Canal

Taking ice cream after a root canal can have several benefits, including:

• Cold therapy: Ice cream is frozen and thus provides an excellent source of cold therapy. Cold therapy after a root canal can help numb the treated area, reducing inflammation and pain and allowing you to recover faster.
• Soft consistency: The smooth texture of ice cream also makes it an ideal food choice since it requires minimal or no chewing. It can help you recover faster and prevents damage to your new restorations.
• Improved mood: For some people, ice cream can provide comfort and improve their mood, making a recovery much easier and faster.

Contact our Rifle dentist for a root canal near you.

Tips for Choosing the Right Type of Ice Cream after a Root Canal Treatment

While ice cream can be beneficial after a root canal, not all ice creams are appropriate. Therefore, you must select the right type of ice cream to maximize the benefits and prevent complications. Keep in mind the following tips when choosing an ice cream after a root canal treatment:

• Opt for plain and creamy ice creams.

There are a variety of plain creamy ice creams like chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla. They have a smooth texture and fewer toppings, making them easier to take. While healthy, avoid ice creams with chewable mix-ins like nuts, candy, and fruits, as they can pressure the treated area, causing pain and inflammation.

• Avoid acidic flavor.

Acidic ingredients like sour or citrus fruits in ice creams can irritate the treated area, causing more discomfort and inflammation. If possible, stick to plain or sweet flavors.

• Opt for natural-based ice creams.

Ice creams made from healthy ingredients like dairy, soy milk, almonds, and coconut oil contain fewer additives like sugars and acids, which can cause infections or discomfort in the treated area.

When to eat ice cream or other items after a root canal

Below are additional tips on how to enjoy ice cream after a root canal:

• Wait for the Anesthesia to wear off. You should take ice cream or other items when your mouth is numb. Eating while numb can cause you to bite your cheek or tongue or disturb the treated area.
• Eat slowly and carefully. Chew carefully and only take small bites to avoid irritating the treated area. Try eating on the treated area’s opposite side to minimize any pressure or discomfort risk.
• Limit your intake. While ice cream can relieve you after a root canal, limiting your intake is essential. Since ice cream may contain a lot of sugar, taking too much can increase your risk of infections around the treated area.
• Maintain proper oral hygiene. After eating ice cream, brushing and flossing your teeth to remove leftover debris and plaque is essential. It lowers your risk of infections around the treated area. Visit our dental offices for routine dental checkups and cleanings.
• Use mouthwash. Rinsing your mouth with an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash, especially after eating ice cream, can help keep your mouth clean and infection-free.

Are you interested in a root canal in Rifle, CO?

Ice cream can be a good choice of food after a root canal. However, ensure you take ice creams with fewer artificial sugars and acids and maintain excellent oral hygiene to prevent infection and discomfort in the treated area. For more information about root canals and aftercare, contact Rifle Dental Care to speak with our dentist at 81650.