Your Invisalign® ProviderYour Toothworks dentist has told you about the dental implants procedure – but what about after the operation? Today, our dentists at Toothworks Masonville Place Dental 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 look and function similar to a natural tooth. Having our Ontario dentists place dental implants can help improve your oral and overall health.
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 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 good oral hygiene routine, it's also important to see your dentist twice a year. Your dentist will perform a thorough cleaning during these visits 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 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.