CarolinasDentist Blog

Eating After a Root Canal

Drawing of a tooth receiving root canal therapy to preserve it

Root canal therapy image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0

You may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity after root canal therapy. This can affect your participation in certain activities and what you will feel comfortable eating.

Following your root canal, our friendly team will send you home with aftercare instructions. Though the anesthetic used to numb the area will wear off the same day, the treatment area may feel sensitive and inflamed for a few days.

What to Eat After a Root Canal

While you can eat shortly after root canal therapy, it’s wise to be cautious and select certain foods that will encourage your mouth to recover as soon as possible. Foods that require a lot of chewing can irritate your mouth and exacerbate any sensitivity, swelling, or inflammation during your root canal recovery.

Consume nutritious soft foods that are easy to chew. These same kinds of foods are also great after any oral surgery procedure. Ideas for what to eat after a root canal include:

  • Smoothies
  • Mashed Potatoes & Baked Sweet Potatoes
  • Scrambled Eggs & Hard Boiled Eggs
  • Soft Fruit
  • Broth or Pureed Soup
  • Macaroni & Cheese
  • Yogurt
  • Applesauce

Additional Recovery Tips

By taking good care of yourself, you can experience a smooth recovery after root canal therapy. Avoid strenuous physical activity for several days and get plenty of rest. Do not smoke or use other tobacco products. Maintain excellent oral hygiene, drink plenty of water, and make note of any questions to ask during your follow-up visit.

Root Canal Therapy in North Carolina

Are you suffering from severe tooth pain or recurring sensitivity? A root canal or other restorative service may be your solution to resolving these unpleasant sensations. If you need a root canal or emergency dental care in North Carolina, our expert team would be happy to resolve your pain and restore your smile. Contact us today to get the oral healthcare you need!

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

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