One of the most popular options for replacing missing teeth is dental implants. This involved placing a titanium screw into the jawbone which acts as a tooth root and attaching a dental crown or other dental prosthetic to replace missing teeth.
Dental implants are just one of the tooth replacement options offered by Dr. Afroz Burges Family and Cosmetic Dentistry.
Once you have completely healed from this procedure and osseointegration has occurred, you will be able to enjoy all of your favorite foods. However, immediately following surgery, you must follow certain dietary restrictions to reduce your risk of implant failure.
Rules to Follow after Implant Surgery
Immediately following the placement of your dental implants, your jaw and teeth will likely hurt. However, approximately an hour after the surgery, you can remove the gauze and eat something. You cannot go straight to your normal diet though. You’ll want to stick to a cool liquid diet, which means that you must avoid hot foods/beverages. You will also need to avoid drinking through a straw, as this will put pressure on the implant site and may cause the blood clot to come out. Finally, avoid drinking alcohol and smoking for at least a few days following surgery.
What can you eat on the day of surgery?
As mentioned, you’ll want to stick with a cool liquid diet, which means cool/cold foods that do not require chewing and are nutritious. This includes:
Smoothies
Cold soups
Applesauce
Milkshakes
Jell-O
Milk
Fruit juices/nectars
Pudding
What can you eat in the weeks after surgery?
After a few days, you can switch to a soft-food diet for approximately 3 months. During this time, osseointegration will occur. This is the process in which the jawbone will heal around the implant, securing it in place. During this time, you will be given a temporary dental prosthetic. This temporary prosthetic is not designed to withstand the normal bite force required for chewing on hard/crunchy foods.
Therefore, you will need to choose foods high in protein and other nutrients to facilitate recovery, including:
Eggs/omelets
Milk
Yogurt
Cheese
Potatoes
Fish
Chicken
Ground beef
Soft fruits, such as peaches and bananas
Steamed veggies
Soft bread
Oatmeal
Pasta
Other soft, nutrient-rich foods
What Foods Should Be Avoided Following Dental Implant Surgery?
In order to avoid damaging your dental implants and risking implant failure, there are certain foods that you should avoid for at least a few weeks following surgery:
Crunchy foods, including popcorn and chips
Tough foods, such as some fruits and veggies
Chewy foods, such as gummies and bagels
Sticky foods, such as caramel and taffy
Acidic foods, such as citrus and tomatoes
Spicy foods, such as hot peppers and salsa
Hot foods/drinks, such as hot coffee/tea, soups, etc
Tips to Ensure You’re Getting Proper Nutrition Following Dental Implant Surgery
Once you have healed from your dental implants, you’ll be able to return to a normal diet and enjoy your favorite foods once again. However, it’s critical that you only eat appropriate foods during the healing process. Below are a few tips to help you ensure that you’re getting the proper nutrition following implant surgery.
Eat regularly
While you are recovering from your implant surgery, it is critical that you eat/drink on a regular basis to facilitate the recovery process. This will give you the nourishment you need, give you energy, and help you feel better.
Supplement
Some of our patients find that they struggle with getting adequate protein. Therefore, you may want to consider supplementing with protein shakes to help you reach your recommended daily requirement of protein.
Stick to the recommended diet
You will experience some discomfort in the first few days following surgery. Therefore, it is critical that you follow the cool liquid diet for a few days and transition into the soft food diet as you feel capable. This will help you avoid aggravating the implant site and delaying healing/recovery.
Check your glucose levels frequently
We recommend that patients with diabetes keep a close eye on their glucose levels to help reduce the risk of infection and avoid complications related to diabetes.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you are missing one or more teeth, you may want to consider dental implants as a tooth replacement option. This option looks, feels, and functions the most like your natural teeth. Dr. Afroz Burges has the experience and expertise to successfully place dental implants and support your recovery. Schedule your consultation today to determine if dental implants are right for you.
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At Afroz Burges DDS, PA, we are committed to providing personalized, top-quality dental care for every patient. Our skilled team uses the latest technology to deliver comfortable and thorough care for patients of all ages. From routine check-ups and cleanings to advanced cosmetic and restorative treatments, we’re here to help you achieve a healthy, radiant smile. In our friendly and inviting office, your dental health is always our highest priority. Discover the difference with care you can trust at Afroz Burges DDS, PA!
We are Dental Implant Specialists in Pearland, TX
At Afroz Burges DDS, PA, we specialize in dental implants, offering a strong and natural-looking solution for replacing missing teeth. Unlike dentures, our dental implants are securely anchored into the jawbone, ensuring stability and support that feel just like your own teeth. These implants help preserve the structure of your jaw and prevent bone loss, improving both function and appearance. With proper maintenance, dental implants are a long-lasting choice that allows you to eat, speak, and smile confidently. Contact us today to discover how dental implants can restore your smile and enhance your quality of life.