Your dentist has told you about the dental implant procedure – but what about after the operation? Today, our Montague dentists explain what to expect from life after implants.
What are dental implants?
Are you missing one or more 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 resemble and perform like natural teeth. Implants placed by our Montague dentists can improve your oral and overall health.
What should I eat after surgery?
Eventually, you will be able to eat all of your favourite foods with dental implants. Nevertheless, while recovering from dental implant surgery, there are certain foods you should consume and others you should avoid because they can irritate the incision site.
You’ll want to eat soft, nutritious food for the first few days after surgery. Here are some foods 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 will be fused to the jawbone, allowing you to speak, eat, and drink without difficulty. If you are curious about how others have experienced life with dental implants, you may wish to read online reviews for ideas, advice, and encouragement.
How long do dental implants last?
Implants are intended to last a lifetime and typically require only occasional adjustments. If properly maintained, dental implants can be a more durable option for tooth replacement than other options.
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
The maintenance of dental implants is identical to that of natural teeth. A good oral hygiene routine is essential for the long-term success of your implant, so be sure to brush and floss twice daily.
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.
In addition, he or she will examine the condition of your dental implant and the surrounding teeth. This enables your dentist to detect and treat gum disease or deterioration early, or even prevent it 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, and other conditions can increase the risk of dental implant instability or failure. Therefore, it is essential to adhere to your dentist's or surgeon's postoperative instructions.