You've learned about the dental implants procedure from your dentist - but what about after the operation? In this post, our Toronto dentists explain what to expect from life after implants.
What are dental implants?
If you are missing one or more teeth, your dentist might recommend a dental implant to hold a tooth replacement such as a crown or bridge in place.
Dental crowns or bridges are restoration that function and appear similar to a natural tooth. Having our dentists in Toronto place dental implants can help to improve your oral and overall health.
What should I eat after surgery?
You'll eventually be able to enjoy all the foods you love again with a dental implant. That said, there are a few foods you should eat while recovering from your dental implant surgery and some we recommend avoiding since they can irritate the incision site.
You'll want to eat nutritious, soft foods for the first few days following surgery. Here are some foods to pick up at the grocery store:
- Yogurt (no nuts or granola, though)
- Applesauce (high in fibre and vitamin C)
- Mashed potatoes (fibre-rich and soft, add cheese or gravy for flavour)
- Warm, broth-based soups (Filled with essential vitamins and protein-rich)
- Pudding
- Jell-O
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.