Before getting dental implants, it is always a good idea to have an idea of what you can expect after the procedure. Doing so will allow you to be prepared for anything that may arise - especially as it pertains to your diet and the foods you should have on hand at home.
While you may have to make some changes, how long after dental implants can you eat normally? Let’s find out.
Eating After Getting Dental Implants
During the first 24 hours after your dental implant surgery you will want to take it easy. This means either sticking to a liquid diet of broths and smoothies or eating only soft foods, such as yogurt, oatmeal, cottage cheese, mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, soups, smashed bananas, and so forth.
You will also want to avoid foods with small seeds that may get lodged in the surgical site, as well as those that are:
- Crunchy
- Spicy
- Hot
- Chewy
- Acidic
As you begin healing, you can slowly start to incorporate certain foods back into your diet. This includes anything that is rather easy to chew. Everyday foods like pasta, chicken, fish, cooked vegetables, fruits, eggs, pancakes, soft bread, and so on can be consumed.
Just be sure to continue to avoid crunchy and chewy foods as much as possible until your healing is complete.
When Can You Eat Normally with Dental Implants?
Your mouth has a lot of healing to do after dental implant surgery. This is because the implant must fuse with the jaw bone in order to provide you with a sturdy anchor for your new tooth. You want to do what you can to avoid causing any harm to this area so that it has every chance possible for successful healing.
It will take about 3 to 4 weeks, on average, to heal enough from dental implants to eat normally. Though bear in mind that it can take up to 6 months to fully heal from the procedure. So you will still want to avoid hard and chewy foods in the implant area during this time.
Don’t worry - you won’t have to stick to liquid or soft foods for the entire time. You will be able to adjust the foods you eat as you go through the process.
Tips for Eating After Getting Dental Implants
Below are a few tips to incorporate into your routine as you heal from getting dental implants. Be sure to discuss any specific details with your periodontist to achieve the greatest results.
- Cut your food into small bites.
- Chew away from where your implants are located.
- Stick to the right foods until you are ready to progress.
- Be sure you are drinking a lot and keeping your mouth hydrated.
Dental Implants From Periodontal Associates
At Periodontal Associates, we understand that having dental implants successfully placed is only the first step in a great outcome. The rest will come with the care they receive at home. Eating the right foods - and avoiding those that are dangerous while you are healing - can lead to long-lasting, highly functional implants.
Ready to learn more or get started? Contact us today.