How Long After Dental Implants Can You Eat Normally?
Dental implants can vastly improve your oral health and self-confidence. Getting dental implants is a valuable investment in your smile that can affect all areas of your life.
You may want to know how long it will take to eat your favorite foods after dental implant surgery. A few weeks after surgery, you can add everyday foods to your diet, gradually increasing their texture and hardness. It is best to avoid chewing hard and crunchy foods with your new implant until the final crown placement.
How Dental Implant Surgery Works
Dental implant surgery may seem intimidating, but it is far more manageable than many patients believe. A dental implant consists of three parts:
- A biocompatible titanium anchor that your oral surgeon places in the jawbone
- A stainless steel abutment or cap
- A crown that replaces the visible tooth
The first step is extracting your tooth. Your oral surgeon can often extract your damaged tooth and place your implant post during the same procedure, saving time.
Next, the surgeon places the post in the jawbone. The post gradually bonds with the bone in osseointegration. The surgeon places the abutment holding the dental crown to complete your restoration.
After two to three months of healing, your new implant will be ready for its crown. You will return to your restorative dentist to complete the process. The implant post and bone will bond and heal for several months until osseointegration is complete.
Healing After Dental Implant Surgery
Many patients report that the dental implant recovery period is more straightforward than they thought. Post-surgical discomfort is generally mild enough that over-the-counter pain relievers are sufficient. You will also take a course of antibiotics to prevent infection.
For the first 24 hours after surgery, an all-liquid diet works best. Smoothies, milkshakes, and protein shakes can help you hydrate and keep up your strength. Do not eat or drink anything hot or spicy during this time. Avoid using a straw for the first three days to keep your protective blood clot intact.
Soft Foods to Enjoy
As you recover, you can add soft foods to your diet. Here are a few examples:
- Pudding
- Yogurt
- Soups with soft pieces
- Scrambled eggs
- Mashed potatoes
- Soft meats like fish and well-cooked beef
Foods to Add Gradually
- Acidic foods like citrus fruits
- Spicy foods
- Hot-temperature foods and drinks
Avoid Until Final Crown Placement
- Crunchy foods
- Chewy foods
- Sticky foods
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
Can I eat anything I want after the dentist places my crown?
You can eat almost anything you want according to your comfort. You will know if a food is too hard or crunchy for you. Be careful with sticky foods since they may dislodge your crown.
Why do I have to avoid spicy foods for so long?
Spicy foods irritate the healing gums. Please wait until the gum fully heals before trying it.
Call Braasch OMS
Dental implants will transform your smile, improve your chewing ability, and boost your self-confidence. If you need more information about dental implants, please call our Bedford, NH office at 603-657-1984 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Braasch. We look forward to meeting you.