Wait until the numbness has completely worn off before eating. Until then, you could easily bite your lip or tongue, or burn yourself on hot food. If we recommended a longer wait because of your filling, follow that advice too.
For your first meal, choose softer food that is not too hot, such as eggs, pasta or lukewarm soup. If the tooth is still sensitive, chew on the other side. With a temporary filling , avoid hard and sticky foods such as nuts and caramel.
You may take small sips of water if you can swallow comfortably. Wait until the anaesthetic has worn off before drinking hot coffee or tea.
Your return to your usual diet depends on the condition of the tooth. Until a permanent filling , onlay or crown has been fitted, avoid placing heavy pressure on the treated tooth, even if it no longer hurts.
For details of the relevant treatment, see our page on microscope-assisted root canal treatment .
For related advice on recovery and symptoms, see pain after root canal treatment .