Type of Metal Used in Dental Implants

Dental implants are a long-lasting replacement for your own natural teeth. Durable, just like your own teeth, with good oral hygiene, they’re permanent replacements. The implant will fuse to your jawbone directly, replacing not just your external tooth, but strengthening your jawbone as well as the bone surrounding it.

What are Implants?

With a 95% success rate, implants can be used in a number of different ways. Each type of implant is made for a purpose, whether that is to replace a single missing tooth, multiple teeth, or serve as a support system for replacing many teeth.  

All implants have three different parts: the artificial tooth root acts as a base for the replacement tooth; a metal frame is attached to the base, and is designed to hold an artificial tooth; and then there is the artificial tooth itself, which fills any gaps between your teeth. 

Implants support and assist with your jawbone health and that of other teeth, as well as improving your smile.They can also help you to speak more clearly, too. And, because implants are just like your natural teeth, you care for them as you would your own teeth. 

Use the same good kind of dental hygiene that you do for your own natural teeth, in other words: 

• Brush them and floss twice a day
• Schedule your regular 6 month check-ups and cleanings with your dentist

What Type of Metal is Used in Dental Implants?

Dental implants are commonly made from titanium. The titanium is medical-grade, and it is chosen because it is extremely highly biocompatible and it is also strong, so the implant post can fuse  with your jawbone around it.

Different Types of Implants

There are four main kinds of implants, including: 

• Single Tooth Dental Implants
• Multiple Teeth Replacement Implants
• All-on-Four Implants

Single Tooth Implants

The most typical implant type is a single tooth dental implant. Inserted in the jawbone surgically, the implant replaces your missing tooth without any damage to your surrounding teeth. That single implanted tooth is just like your natural tooth as to how it looks and functions.

Multiple Teeth

If you’re missing three or more adjacent teeth, an implant-supported bridge can be used. 

The implants replace the two outermost missing teeth. A porcelain bridge between them covers the remaining gap.

All-on-4 Implants

If you’re missing all your teeth in an upper or lower arch, all-on-four implants can be used as anchors. Just these four implants cano support a full replacement arch.

All-on-4 implants are both fully durable and functional, supporting your jawbone and making use of your available bone to help prevent the need for a bone graft. Once these implant posts are placed, then your artificial teeth are attached. This kind of implant is frequently recommended because of its comfort, permanence, and excellent functionality instead of traditional dentures.

Are You Ready to Learn More about Implants?

If you’re ready to learn more about dental implants, just give us a call. We can help you with the replacement of any damaged or missing teeth. If you want to find out more about implants, we’re here to help. Just reach out today!

Whether you are looking for a natural tooth replacement for one tooth, a few teeth, or an entire mouth of teeth, dental implants are the gold standard. 

Every time you lose a tooth, the teeth surrounding the now empty space become vulnerable. They may begin to shift, causing your bite to fall out of alignment – and this can lead to many additional oral health concerns. 

You can prevent this by investing in tooth replacement, such as dental implants. 

What are Dental Implants? 

Dental implants are a type of artificial tooth replacement that looks incredibly real – and functions just like a real tooth, too. A titanium post becomes an artificial root and is implanted into the jaw bone. Once they are fused together, an abutment is then added to the top of the implant in order to hold the artificial tooth – or dental crown – in place. 

These implants come with some great benefits, too. They are not subject to decay so you will never need a root canal treatment, they cannot stain, and they help to preserve the jaw bone. Patients who have them are quick to say that they feel and function just like a natural tooth. 

Dental implants have a very high success rate and are meant to last a long time. Keep in mind that while the post may last, the dental crown will likely need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years. Though it can last longer with exceptional treatment. 

The great news is that dental implants are not a one-size-fits-all sort of deal. Different types serve different purposes based on your need. Let’s take a look. 

Types of Dental Implants

There are 3 main types of dental implants. Choosing which one is best for you will be determined by how many teeth you are missing. 

Single Dental Implant. For patients with one missing tooth, a single dental implant can be used. It will fill in the space where there is a missing tooth and allow you the opportunity to reduce the risk of any oral health issues that stem from leaving the space empty. 

Dental Implant-Supported Bridges. To replace multiple teeth, a dental bridge can help – as long as the teeth are in a consecutive row. Traditional bridges require the filing down of the natural teeth on either side and a crown placed on these perfectly healthy teeth. With a dental implant bridge, you don’t have to use the surrounding teeth to support the bridge as the implant will do all the work.

Dental implant bridges are a long-lasting solution that has a high success rate – especially when compared to other options. 

Dental-Implant Supported Dentures. Missing all your teeth, whether on the top, bottom, or both, often requires dentures in order to be able to maintain a decent quality of life. But, traditional dentures usually need to be replaced every 5-7 years and can feel loose and unstable within the mouth. Dental implant-supported dentures are a new, welcomed option. Using about 4 dental implants, they are able to hold an entire arch. This gives stability and comfort – not to mention that their appearance and function are just like that of real teeth. 

Choosing the Best Type of Dental Implants

When it comes to dental implants, you can work with your dentist to choose the best one for your needs. This will depend on how many teeth you are missing and where they are missing. Either way, you will find that dental implants offer a long-term, highly functional solution for replacing missing teeth. 

Are you a candidate for dental implants? Do you want to see which one would be the best option for you? Then Periodontal Associates is here for you.

Contact us today at the office most convenient for you: 

Framingham Office 508-875-6185
Newton Office 617-964-6185
Or, request an appointment online.

Periodontal disease is a serious gum infection that can damage gums, destroy jawbone, loosen teeth or even cause the loss of one or more teeth. Fortunately, periodontal treatment can stop the disease before it causes significant damage.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease usually starts as the result of plaque, which is a sticky film composed mainly of bacteria. Plaque forms when the starches and sugars in food combine with bacteria that live in the mouth. Plaque can cause gingivitis, an early form of periodontal disease that causes swollen, tender and bleeding gums. Brushing easily removes plaque.

When left in place, plaque hardens into a hard-to-remove tartar that irritates the gums to cause inflammation, which can cause pockets to develop between teeth and gums. Plaque, tartar and bacteria can fill the pockets, causing the pockets and infection to deepen. Left untreated, deep infection can destroy tissue and bone, which allows teeth to loosen or fall out. Dentists refer to this late stage of periodontal disease as periodontitis.

Treatment for Periodontal Disease

Treatment for periodontal disease depends largely on the stage and severity of the gum infection. Periodontists, who are dentists with advanced training in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease, may suggest non-surgical or surgical treatments.

Non-surgical treatments for periodontal disease

In its early stages, periodontal disease often responds well to less invasive, non-surgical treatments.

Scaling

In this procedure, the periodontist uses special instruments, ultrasonic devices or even lasers to remove tartar and bacteria from the surfaces of teeth and beneath the gums.

Root planing

During root planing, the periodontist uses special tools to smooth the root surfaces, which discourages the further buildup of bacteria and tartar. Root planing also removes any bacterial byproducts that may contribute to inflammation, slow down healing, or delay the reattachment of the gum back onto the surface of teeth.

Antibiotics

Topical or oral antibiotics can help control bacterial infection. Topical antibiotics involve rinsing with antibacterial mouthwashes or inserting antibiotic gels into the pockets between teeth and gums. Oral antibiotics may be necessary to eliminate infection-causing bacteria.

Surgical treatments

Surgical treatments may be necessary to treat advanced periodontitis.

Flap surgery

Also known as pocket reduction surgery, flap surgery exposes the roots for more effective scaling and root planing. To perform flap surgery, the periodontist makes several incisions in the gum to allow a section of gum tissue to be gently pulled back to expose the roots for scaling and root planing. In cases of bone loss, the periodontist recontours the underlying bone before suturing the gum tissue back in place after flap surgery.

Soft tissue grafts

The loss of gum tissue causes the soft tissue of the gumline to recede. Treatment for receding gumline involves reinforcing the damaged soft tissue with tissue taken from other sources, such as from the roof of the patient’s mouth or from another donor source. Soft tissue grafts help prevent the gum from receding more; it can also cover exposed roots and give teeth a more pleasing aesthetic appearance.

Bone grafting

Bone grafting is necessary when periodontal disease has destroyed bone surrounding tooth roots. This procedure involves replacing damaged bone with small fragments of the patient’s bone, synthetic bone, or donated bone. The graft also holds the tooth in place and supports the regrowth of natural bone.

Periodontists may also perform advanced procedures, such as guided tissue regeneration and tissue-stimulating proteins. For more information about the treatment of periodontal disease, consult with a dentist or periodontist.Call (508) 875-6185 today to schedule an appointment at our Framingham office or (617) 964-6185 for our Newton Centre office. We look forward to providing you with top quality periodontal care.

Oral surgery designed to stimulate new bone growth in the jaw is known as bone regeneration. The procedure is performed by experienced periodontists, often in preparation for dental implant surgery. However, it may also be performed as a preventive procedure to safeguard against tooth loss. Dental bone regeneration may also be performed to improve a sunken facial appearance or to create space during a sinus lift surgery. Here’s what you need to know about dental bone regeneration.

What Causes Jawbone Loss?

The jawbone, which is responsible for anchoring your teeth, and for connecting your jaw to your skull may deteriorate for several reasons. Most of the time, jawbone loss is caused by missing teeth. When teeth and their roots are extracted, the jawbone has nothing to attach to, so it begins receding. 

Serious gum disease known as periodontitis can also cause bone loss in the jaw.  This is because untreated bacterial infections which spread to the living cellular tissues of the jawbone can significantly damage the bone. 

Dental trauma can also lead to jawbone loss. This typically happens as the result of the development of an infection after a tooth has been broken or completely knocked out.  Finally, jawbone loss may result from tumors and cancers. 

Why Do I Need Bone Regeneration in My Jaw?

If you are referred for dental bone regeneration it is because you have experienced a significant loss of bone, and need to stimulate new growth. If you are planning to replace missing teeth with dental implants, your implant specialist will first have to confirm that you have sufficient jaw bone to support the implants. In other words, the jawbone must meet certain height and density requirements. If your jawbone has deteriorated, you’ll need bone regeneration before you’ll be approved for implant surgery.

In other cases, you may elect to have bone regeneration to correct premature aging due to a sunken facial appearance. Other patients may be referred for dental bone regeneration to prevent future tooth loss and dental problems. Finally, you may need to have this surgery after a serious gum infection that damaged the jaw bone.

What is the Procedure for Regenerating Dental Bone?

Dental bone regeneration involves bone grafting. During a bone graft, an incision will be made in the gum to expose the underlying bone. Any active infection will be removed or cleaned out. Then a graft material will be placed in the bone. The graft will either be harvested from your own body, secured from a tissue bank, or synthetic material may be used.  After the graft material has been placed, a membrane to prevent downgrowth of the gum into the bone may also be placed.  

During the surgery, Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) may be injected to help maximize bone regeneration and to expedite the healing process. This plasma is taken from your own body. It requires a simple blood draw which is then put in a centrifuge that separates the growth factors so that they are concentrated. That very concentrated plasma will be injected into the site of the graft.

The science behind using PRGF in dental bone regeneration is similar to Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections which are commonly used to expedite healing following an orthopedic injury 

Jawbone Regeneration in Massachusetts

Contact Periodontal Associates in Framingham or Newton Centre, MA to learn more about dental bone regeneration. For more than 30 years, Dr. Feuerman and Dr. Castellucci have been able to predictably regenerate bone around natural teeth, restore your facial structure, or prepare for dental implant surgery. 

Framingham Office:        508-875-6185

Newton Centre Office:        617-964-6185

Periodontitis is one word that strikes fear in many adults, and for good reason. The CDC has estimated that more than 47% of adults have periodontal disease by the age of 30. By age 65, approximately 70% of people have some form of the disease. That explains why dentures and dental implants have become so normal, that most people expect to need them eventually.

The good news is that you don’t have to live in fear of periodontal disease. When you understand what it is and what causes it, you can take preventative actions. You should also know the symptoms of periodontal disease so that you can catch it while it’s possibly curable.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is also known as periodontitis. It’s a medical condition that involves inflammation and infection in the gums and bone supporting teeth. It damages soft tissue and bone structure  in the mouth over time and can lead to a receding gum line and potentially tooth loss.

The primary cause of periodontitis is an overgrowth of bacteria. That occurs when the teeth and gums aren’t cared for properly over time. If you make brushing and flossing a routine part of your day and visit your dentist for a cleaning on a regularly scheduled basis, you have a good chance of avoiding gum disease and keeping your teeth into old age.

Early Signs of Periodontal Disease

Periodontitis starts out as gingivitis. You may notice that your gums bleed when you brush or floss your teeth. Your gums may also just seem more tender than usual. If you look closely, you may also see plaque build up along your gum line.

In some cases, gingivitis is present with no apparent signs. If you’re visiting your dentist regularly for cleanings, they can alert you to signs noticeable from their experienced eye. Without those cleanings, you may not know you have periodontal disease until a later stage.

Signs of more developed periodontal disease include:

• Chronic bad breath
• Swollen gums
• Bleeding gums
• Pain when brushing or flossing
• Gum recession
• Tooth loss
• Sensitivity to cold and hot

What Happens if Periodontitis Isn’t Treated Properly?

Losing your teeth may seem like the most devastating long-term impact of untreated periodontal disease, but it can get worse. Severe gum infections can lead to inflammation and infection throughout the body. It can increase your chances of heart disease in addition to leaving you in need of dental implants or dentures.

Bad breath and bleeding gums can also interfere with your social and professional life. More advanced gum disease often means your gums start bleeding with any irritation, even if you aren’t brushing or flossing. It can take a toll on your self-confidence over time.

What to Do If You Think You Have Periodontal Disease

It’s easier to treat gingivitis than it is the more advanced periodontal disease. Preventative care includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and seeing your dentist for a professional cleaning regularly.

If you have been neglecting oral care and you notice signs of periodontal disease, it’s urgent to schedule a cleaning with a local dentist. They can determine if you have gum disease and tell you what stage you are in if you do. The longer you wait, the more expensive it will become to treat the condition and the more likely you are to lose teeth.

If you have gum disease, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Cooper, contact us today at 516-627-4151.

Making the decision to get dental implants is a step in the right direction for the future of your oral health. But just like your real teeth, your dental implants require a level of care, as well. This is how you can ensure their longevity and keep them looking great, too. 

It all starts with properly cleaning your dental implants – and here’s how you do it. 

Cleaning Your Implants

Keeping your dental implants clean is much like keeping your teeth clean. You just want to take extra care to avoid causing any harm or damage. Follow these steps. 

Brush Your Teeth

You will want to make sure you are using a soft-bristled toothbrush as anything harder may cause damage to your gums and cause bleeding. If you prefer, you can use an electric toothbrush. Manual or electric soft-bristled toothbrushes will both work to remove things like tartar and plaque while still keeping your teeth healthy and safe. 

Make sure you brush at least two times per day. Though if you can brush after every meal, that’s even better. First thing in the morning you should brush your teeth to remove any bacteria that developed overnight — and rid yourself of that nasty morning breath. Brushing again before bed helps remove any buildup from the day and keeps plaque and decay at bay while you sleep. 

Floss Regularly

Flossing is important. It gets all the buildup of debris and particles that have been tucked away in between and around your teeth. Known as an oral irrigator, a water flosser allows you to safely floss your teeth using water. This is one of the best tools for thorough flossing — and is usually highly recommended by dentists. 

If you do not have a water flosser, using a fuzzy crown flosser is your next best option. It will help you get in between areas and clean them without risking dislodging your crown. It is not likely to happen, but not tugging on it with floss from underneath will keep it healthy and secure. 

Floss daily – at least once – to maintain good oral hygiene. 

Increase the Life of Your Dental Implants With These Tips

Sometimes you just need to learn the tips that will transform the way you approach your oral health. And when it comes to implants, there are a few things you should know. 

• Use non-abrasive toothpaste. Or a low-abrasive option. This would be one that doesn’t include whitening agents or baking soda. These are too abrasive and can cause damage to implants, making them look dull and worn. 

• When brushing, use a soft-bristled angled toothbrush so you can reach up under the abutment/post while brushing to keep it extra clean. 

• Visit your dentist regularly. Deep cleanings can only be received at your dentist’s office – and they are important to protect your dental implants. So make your appointment every 6 months and keep it!

Learn More About Dental Implants at Periodontal Associates 

Whether you have one missing tooth or a mouthful of missing teeth, dental implants can have a positive impact on your overall quality of life. If you are interested in learning more, then the professionals at Periodontal Associates can help. 

Call our office today to schedule an appointment at one of our two convenient locations. 

Framingham Office: (508) 875-6185

Newton Office: (617) 964-6185
Or schedule an appointment online.

As the world around us grows and advances, we choose to move with it and take advantage of all it has to offer. In the dental world, laser dentistry is one of those advances. It has allowed dentists in all types of settings to treat patients effectively, comfortably, and with much fewer risks. 

Let’s take a closer look at laser dentistry and what it is used for. 

Laser Dentistry

Laser dentistry is a thin beam of focused light that has the energy to get through several different dental treatments. Approved by the FDA, there are two different types of lasers used in dentistry – those designed to treat hard tissue such as teeth and those to treat soft tissue, such as gums. 

Hard tissue lasers are strong enough to cut through bone – hence why they are used in procedures involving the teeth. They are accurate and precise, cutting the tooth only where needed and minimizing the invasiveness of the tissues. Dentists most commonly use these for finding cavities, prepping the tooth for a filling, and even dealing with tooth sensitivity. 

Soft tissue lasers – those most used in a periodontal office – are designed with soft gum tissue in mind. As the gum gets cut by the laser it simultaneously seals off any exposed blood vessels. This helps to reduce bleeding as well as reduce the chance of infection. Healing is quicker, too. Many procedures involving the gums can be safely and effectively handled using these lasers with great results.

The more dentists use lasers in their dentistry work, the more they experience the potential and powerful benefits they provide. 

Common Laser Dentistry Procedures

While lasers may not be able to handle all dental procedures, they are capable of handling many, including: 

• Crown lengthening
• Pocket reduction (for those with gum disease)
• Gum contouring
• Frenectomy
• Soft tissue folds
• Tooth decay
• Hypersensitivity
• Preparation for dental fillings

And it does all of these things in a much less invasive manner than if they were done using traditional dental tools. 

Benefits of Laser Dentistry

The benefits of laser dentistry are plentiful. Most patients who experience it tend to find that it is a much more pleasant experience than traditional procedures. Of course, this isn’t the only benefit that comes from taking advantage of the new technology. 

Local anesthesia may not be necessary. It depends on the patient and the procedure, but local anesthesia is often not needed with laser dentistry. And, if it is, it is often less than you’d typically receive for a regular dental procedure. 

Less blood loss. The highly-focused light beam of lasers aids in the clotting of exposed blood vessels, greatly reducing blood loss. 

The chance of infection is significantly lower. Thanks to the ability of the laser to sterilize the area, the risks of infection are much lower. 

Healing time is reduced. Laser procedures are less invasive so the healing time is greatly reduced. 

Reduce dental fear. Dental fear and anxiety are very common issues for many patients – and it often stems from the sounds and the manner in which dental procedures are traditionally handled. However, laser dentistry is much more comfortable and makes the experience much more tolerable for those with hesitations. 

Take Advantage of All That  Laser Dentistry Has to Offer

Imagine being able to have your natural teeth and gums restored to health without any invasive dental procedures. At Periodontal Associates, we strive to stay on top of the latest technology so that we may provide our patients with the best treatment options – and that includes laser dentistry. 

If you would like to learn more about laser dentistry and how you can benefit from it, reach out to one of our convenient locations: 

Framingham Office 508-875-6185

Newton Office 617-964-6185
Or, request an appointment online.

Do you have one or more teeth that need to be replaced? Whether they are missing or severely decayed beyond the point of saving, a dental implant is the highest quality tooth replacement option. If you need to replace just one or a few teeth, dental implants are an affordable option. But if you need to replace an entire arch of teeth, implant supported dentures are a more cost effective option. 

The traditional dental implant procedure can take a few weeks or even a few months. But advancements in technology have made it possible to get dental implants in just one appointment. How do one day dental implants work? Here’s a basic explanation of the process. 

Step 1: The Consultation

Before you can get a one day dental implant, you must first have a consultation with your dentist. The dentist will evaluate your mouth where the missing tooth needs to be replaced to determine whether or not a one day implant will work for you. It is necessary for your gums to be healthy and your jaw bone to be adequate enough to support an implant. Radiographs of the area will be necessary to verify the bone quality/quantity.  If all looks well, your appointment will be scheduled for receiving your implant. You and your dentist will discuss the procedure and your preferred type of anesthesia ahead of time in preparation for your appointment. 

Step 2: The Procedure

On the day of your appointment the dental implant root will be surgically placed in your jaw. Anesthesia makes the process pain free. After the implant is placed, a temporary crown will be attached to the top while your permanent crown is created. The temporary crown looks natural and restores your smile until the permanent crown can be placed. 

Step 3: The Finishing Touch

Once the permanent crown is created and sent back to your dentist, usually in a few weeks, you can return to your dentist for the permanent fitting. As long as the crown fits properly and you are satisfied with the way it looks, the process will be complete at this time. 

How Much Faster Are One Day vs Traditional Implants?

Traditional implants can take up to a year to complete. The implant root is placed, then allowed to heal for a few months. Then the abutment is attached and you’ll wait another few months. Finally the crown is attached and the process is complete in somewhere between 6 months and a year. The biggest advantage to the longer process is that it gives your body more time to heal between each step. But the entire process for one day dental implants only takes a few weeks from the consultation to the final result. 

Benefits of One Day Dental Implants

One day dental implants have many benefits: 

• Faster process. You won’t have to sit in the dental chair as long in total as you would for the traditional dental implant process, although you will sit for longer in one day. 
• Less trips to the dentist. You avoid the inconvenience of making trips back and forth to the dentist and taking time off work to go.  
• Get your smile back sooner. If you’re missing a tooth that is noticeable, you want your dental implant as soon as possible to restore your smile. One day dental implants will have you smiling again sooner. 
• Works for implant supported dentures as well. The one day dental implant process can also be used to receive implant supported dentures. Get your full smile back in a much shorter time. 

Periodontal Associates Provides One Day Dental Implants

If you’re looking for a dentist who can provide you with one day dental implants, Periodontal Associates can help. Our skilled periodontists can place one or more dental implants in a single appointment after an initial consultation. Many patients are ideal candidates for this procedure and would benefit from the convenience. We provide this service for our patients who want to save time and money. 

Call 508-875-6185 today to schedule a consultation at our Framingham office or 617-964-6185 for our Newton office. You can also request an appointment and someone will be in touch shortly to schedule. We look forward to restoring your smile.  

According to the CDC, Periodontal disease impacts about 47.2% of adults 30 years of age and older, with its prevalence increasing with age. In fact, for those 65 years of age and older, 70.1% will experience some form of periodontal disease. 

As you can tell, it is a very common dental disease, but it surely isn’t a pleasant one. From bleeding gums to loose teeth and bone loss, it can severely decrease one’s quality of life. To know how to personally reduce the incidence of this disease, we need to know how you get it. Which leads us to the question: What causes periodontal disease? 

What is Periodontal Disease? 

Periodontal disease comes in four stages, with the earliest stage – gingivitis – affecting only the gums. During this stage, the gums become inflamed and may bleed. If caught early, this is the only stage of periodontal disease that can be reversed. 

If treatment is not sought, the disease will progress to the next stages which means the infection spreads from the gums to the surrounding tissue and bone that support your teeth. The gums may pull away from the tooth, bone loss begins to occur, teeth will get loose due to lack of support, and eventually, tooth loss happens. 

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Symptoms of periodontal disease will vary based primarily on the stage of the disease you are in. But knowing what to look for can help you make smart decisions about your oral health. Some of the most common symptoms you will encounter are: 

• Red gums that may be swollen and tender. 
• Bleeding gums. 
• Loose gums that pull away from the gum line. 
• Sensitivity along the gum line. 
• Pain when chewing. 
• Loose teeth. 
• Bad breath. 

What Causes Periodontal Disease? 

We know what it is and what to look for, but what actually causes periodontal disease? Simply put, this disease can be caused by poor oral hygiene or a buildup of too much bacteria via the plaque buildup in the mouth. This leads to plaque bacterial  toxins – which can spread below the gumline. As a result, it irritates and destroys the gums, tissues, and bones meant to support your teeth. 

Developing a healthy regimen for your oral care can help reverse periodontal disease (if caught early) or at least reduce the chance of further damage. Brush and floss regularly and see your dentist every 3 – 4  months. This is the best way to reduce the buildup of the toxic plaque that can lead to periodontal disease. 

Periodontal Associates For All Your Periodontal Needs

If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease or you think you may have it, then you must take the appropriate steps for your dental health. And that means getting a thorough examination by a dentist – and the treatment necessary to address the disease. 

Periodontal Associates is a leader in periodontal care in the New England area. And we strive to help restore your smile and increase your quality of life.

Call our office today to schedule an appointment at one of our two convenient locations. 

Framingham Office: [df-phone-number1 dflink=”true”]
Newton Office: [df-phone-number2 dflink=”true”]

Or schedule an appointment online.

Getting one or more dental implants requires a minimally invasive surgical procedure. It may take a few days to a few weeks to completely heal, and a few months for the implant to fully bond with the jaw bone. During this time, it may be necessary to be careful about what you eat and avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the implant was placed. 

Following your dentist’s instructions carefully will help your dental implant heal faster and last longer. What can you eat after dental implant surgery? Here’s what dentists recommend. 

What to Eat the Day Of or the Day After Dental Implant Surgery:

Immediately following your dental implant surgery you may have some mild discomfort and swelling. Cold liquids and soft foods are best, such as: 

• Smoothies. The best thing about smoothies is that they can consist of many different types of foods, giving you essentially all of your food groups in one glass. Chia seeds provide protein and grains, also serving as a thickening agent. Yogurt is another option for protein and good fat. Use whatever fruits you prefer. You can even add spinach or kale to get your leafy greens. Peanut butter is another good protein-filled ingredient. 

*Avoid drinking through a straw. 

• Applesauce. A good source of vitamins, applesauces, especially those combined with other fruits and vegetables, can provide a range of nutrients with a soft, cold texture. 
• Yogurt. As long as you have no issues with dairy, yogurt is another protein-rich option with good dairy fat to help you feel full. Avoid options that include fruit chunks or granola, which will be too hard to chew at this time. Dairy is also rich in calcium, which is good for bone strength. 
• Cold soups. Hot foods and beverages are best to avoid for the first few days, but cold soups are perfectly fine. Gazpacho and other soups served cold provide nutrients and offer a savory option in place of sweets. 

What to Eat After the First Week:

After the first week your mouth should be a lot less sensitive, but it is still necessary to eat soft foods while your implant is bonding with the jaw bone. Try these: 

• Eggs. Eggs are an excellent source of protein and can be made in a variety of ways with other nutritious ingredients added. Scramble eggs with spinach or make an omelet with cheese and other soft vegetables.
• Potatoes. Potatoes can be made in a range of textures. Start with mashed potatoes and work up to chewier forms as you are ready. 
• Cheese. Cheese is a soft dairy food that can be eaten in a variety of ways. It can be added to food or eaten alone. And cheese is rich in calcium to promote healthy bones. 
• Chicken. When you’re ready to try meat, chicken can be made soft enough to chew without too much trouble. Be careful that you don’t cook it until it is tough. Slow cooker recipes often make chicken very tender. 
• Fish. A naturally soft meat, fish is an excellent source of protein. Just be on the lookout for bones, especially in certain types of fish. 
• Ground beef. The best way to introduce red meat back into your diet is through ground beef. It is soft and easier to chew than a steak or other cuts of beef. 

When in Doubt Ask Your Dentist 

If you’re really unsure about what to eat or whether or not you should eat a certain food, ask your dentist. It is always better to be sure before you eat something to avoid potential damage to your implant. 

Periodontal Associates Provides Dental Implants in Framingham and Newton

Are you looking for a periodontist in the Framingham or Newton area to get one or more dental implants? Periodontal Associates skillfully places dental implants using minimally invasive technology to help you recover faster and get back to eating the foods you love. With our expertise and your dedication to your own dental hygiene, your dental implant can last a lifetime. 

Contact us at either of our two convenient locations to request an appointment: 

Framingham: 508-875-6185

Newton: 617-964-6185