Tooth loss can negatively impact your quality of life in several different ways. For example, many patients struggle to accept the changes to their looks. Others grow frustrated with their inability to enunciate certain words or chew food thoroughly.
Your dentist can rebuild your smile’s appearance and functionality with dental implants. Unlike dentures and dental bridges, these restorations are embedded into your jawbone, so there are fewer dietary restrictions. However, avoiding these 3 foods during recovery can significantly increase the likelihood of implant success!
Option #1: Raw Fruits and Veggies
It can take anywhere from three to six months for your mouth to mend after surgery because that’s usually how long it takes your jaw to generate enough new bone growth to fuse with your implant. Unfortunately, eating certain foods during this period could destabilize the titanium rod of your restoration, contributing to potential failure.
For instance, raw apples and carrots can be incredibly difficult to bite into and chew after your procedure and can trigger additional irritation in your already tender teeth and gums. Other hard snacks, like popcorn, nuts, or seeds, should also be avoided. Why not fill up on alternatives that are easier to eat, like bananas or soft peas?
Option #2: Hot, Spicy Foods
After your implant is placed, your mouth must form a blood clot at the surgical site to prevent bacteria in your mouth from causing an infection. Anything too hot could potentially damage or dislodge it, which can delay your recovery. You may also want to steer clear of highly spiced foods that might result in a burning sensation in your gums.
It’s best to stick to blander warm or room-temperature meals that won’t harm the clot, which is essential for your healing. Some popular options might include scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, applesauce, or blended fruit smoothies.
Option #3: Alcohol
Many adults enjoy having a glass of wine or other alcoholic beverage with dinner, but if you’ve just undergone dental implant surgery, you’ll need to abstain while you heal. This is because it suppresses your immune system and hinders your body’s ability to absorb nutrients from your meals, then deliver them to your teeth and gums to mend. It can also disrupt your body’s ability to fight off infections, such as peri-implantitis, a leading cause of failure.
Furthermore, alcohol can dissolve the cement anchoring your tooth-shaped cap to the abutment of your implant. If it loosens, it’s more likely to become damaged or dislodged, requiring repairs or replacement.
Your dentist will provide detailed post-operative instructions for you to follow, which can help you recover as quickly as possible without developing complications.
About the Practice
Patients at Arts Family Dentistry of Dallas benefit from two dedicated providers who offer a comprehensive menu of services at one location. Dr. Azimi, an accomplished general dentist, and Dr. Patel, a board-certified orthodontist, take the time to understand your unique goals and concerns. Then, they tailor treatment plans to your unique needs. Their compassionate approach, combined with state-of-the-art equipment, delivers comfortable and accurate results that are designed to last. If you need to replace missing teeth, you can request an appointment on the website or call (469) 981-1700.