Dietary Advice Following Dental Implants

Getting used to your newly placed implants.

One of the main problems with using dentures to replace missing teeth is that of dietary restriction. As well as other issues such as occasional soreness, wearing dentures means that there are certain foods that you are likely to have to avoid. Largely, these are hard or sticky foods which may cause the dentures to become loose.

This problem is overcome when you have dental implants fitted at our Derby practice as these are placed directly into the jawbone giving them a high level of stability and security. Following the placement of dental implants, an initial ‘easing in’ period can be useful to help you along the way. Because, as you would expect, there is a degree of soreness following the procedure, it is advisable that caution is taken when eating for a short period of time afterwards.

During this period, we offer the following advice.

Exposure to hot foods

Following the placement of dental implants at the Darren Bywater Dental Implant Centre, we would strongly recommend that you avoid extremes of temperature with regards to food and drink. This is for two important reasons; firstly, the area of the procedure will be sensitive and eating or drinking very hot or cold foods and drinks may be uncomfortable. There is also the additional risk that heat may adversely affect the site of the implant itself in the days directly after the placement.

Eating Hard Foods

Due to the relatively invasive nature of a dental implant placement, it is understandable that the area of the procedure will be sensitive. To this end, biting down on anything hard is likely to cause a degree of pain, or, at the very least, some discomfort.

Biting down on hard foods may even, in rare cases, cause damage to the implant itself and should therefore be avoided. Given the benefits and longevity of a successful dental implant, it is worth the small sacrifice of waiting for a short period of time to ensure that you obtain the full benefit and expected long life of the implant.

As a general piece of advice, we suggest that those who have a newly placed implant consume a liquid diet for a few days. This lack of any pressure on the implant means that the area will begin to heal quickly and any risk of damage is largely avoided. After a few days, foods such as soft fish and mashed potatoes may be introduced into the diet if you find this comfortable to do so. Common sense here is really key and if any food makes the implant feel uncomfortable then it is best left a little longer.

Once the osseointegration process is complete, usually around three months, and the crown has been attached to the implant, you should find that you are able to eat absolutely any food that you wish. Even here though, it may be wise to exercise a little caution as, although no discomfort should be felt, having a new tooth where there has been a gap for some time may feel strange at first. Cautious eating for a few days will allow you to become used to your new implant.

At the Darren Bywater Dental Implant Centre, we will provide you with full advice and guidance regarding the aftercare of your new dental implant and we will be pleased to answer any questions that you may have.
To arrange a consultation at our Derby dental implant centre, please call our implant line on 01332 550933.

Google+