You are scheduled for dental implant surgery – but what about after the operation? Below, our Chilliwack dentists explain what to expect after your implants have been placed.
What are dental implants?
Do you have one or more missing teeth? Your dentist may recommend a dental implant to hold a tooth replacement such as a bridge or crown in place.
Dental bridges or crowns are restorations that look and function similar to a natural tooth. Having our Chilliwack dentists place dental implants can help improve your oral and overall health.
What should I eat after surgery?
Eventually, you’ll be able to enjoy all the foods you love with a dental implant. However, while recovering from your dental implant surgery there are a few foods you should eat, and some you should avoid as they can irritate the incision site.
It's a good idea to stick to eating soft, nutritious food for the first few days after surgery. Here are a few soft food suggestions to stock up on:
- Mashed potatoes (fibre-rich and soft, add cheese or gravy for flavour)
- Pudding
- Applesauce (high in fibre and vitamin C)
- Jell-O
- Yogurt (no nuts or granola, though)
- Warm, broth-based soups (Filled with essential vitamins and protein-rich)
Will my dental implants function like my natural teeth?
Dental implants are a long-term solution and are customizable. Your surgeon will choose replacement teeth that blend well with your natural teeth.
The implants are fused to the jawbone and you’ll be able to speak, eat and drink without hassle. If you are curious about how people experienced life with dental implants, you may want to look up dental implant reviews online for ideas, tips and encouragement.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are meant to last a lifetime, and usually only need occasional readjustments. Compared to other teeth replacement options, dental implants can be a long-lasting solution if they are cared for properly.
Depending on your case, implants may be a more cost-effective solution in terms of lifetime cost when compared to bridges or crowns, which may need to be replaced sooner.
Proper Care
Caring for your dental implants is as easy as maintaining your natural teeth. Make sure to brush and floss twice a day, as a great oral healthcare routine is essential to your implant’s long-term success.
Regular Dental Appointments
Along with a solid oral healthcare routine, it’s also imperative to continue visiting your dentist twice a year. During these visits, your dentist will complete a thorough cleaning to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
He or she will also check the condition of your dental implant, and the health of your surrounding teeth. This allows your dentist to address any gum issues or deterioration early, or potentially prevent them entirely.
How can I maintain excellent health?
Lifestyle choices (such as abstaining from smoking and excessive drinking of alcohol) remain an important factor in your oral and overall health when it comes to life after dental implants.
Certain diseases such as periodontal disease or other conditions can lead to an increased risk of instability, or dental implant failure. That’s why it’s important to follow your dentist’s or surgeon’s instructions after your procedure.