Your dentist has told you about the dental implant procedure – but what about after the operation? Today, our Burnaby 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 and crowns are tooth-like restorations that look and function like natural teeth. Our Burnaby dentists can help improve your oral and overall health by placing dental implants.
What should I eat after surgery?
With a dental implant, you'll eventually be able to eat all of your favourite foods. However, there are some foods you should eat while recovering from dental implant surgery, 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.
Because the implants are fused to the jawbone, you will be able to speak, eat, and drink normally. If you want to know how other people felt about their dental implants, you can look up dental implant reviews online for ideas, tips, and encouragement.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime and require only minor adjustments on occasion. Dental implants, when compared to other tooth replacement options, can be a long-term solution if properly cared for.
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
Maintaining your dental implants is as simple as caring for your natural teeth. Brush and floss twice a day, as good oral hygiene is critical to the long-term success of your implant.
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 examine the condition of your dental implant as well as the health of the teeth around it. This enables your dentist to address any gum problems or deterioration early on, or even 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 increase the risk of dental implant instability or failure. That is why it is critical to follow your dentist's or surgeon's post-procedure instructions.