Your Invisalign® ProviderWhat is Life Like if You Are Living With Dental Implants?
For the first 24 hours or so after your dental implant procedure, your dentist will likely recommend that you eat a diet of soft foods. It may be recommended to continue to eat soft foods for up to a week after you have dental implant surgery.
Good go-to staples include mashed potatoes, smoothies, applesauce, meal replacement drinks, smooth soups (not chunky), homemade broth and bouillon, juices and protein drinks. Avoid citrus fruits, which can damage tooth enamel.
Recovery should be straightforward if you follow your dentist's instructions for aftercare.
Can You Use Dental Implants Like Real Teeth?
If, like many people, you enjoy foods like spare ribs, steaks, corn on the cob, apples, tacos, nuts and other culinary delights, good news: with a dental implant, you'll be able to continue to enjoy these things – and speak and smile as you would with your natural teeth. The dental implant you receive functions just as a natural tooth would with roots and the tooth itself allowing you to enjoy food as you always have.
Implants are placed below your gumline and fuse with your jawbone. So, once your tissues in the affected area have had time to heal, you won't need to worry about your dental implant falling out since the titanium is anchored to the jawbone. The tooth replacement (a crown, bridge or denture) will be placed atop the implant to act as the biting surface of the tooth.
Are Dental Implants Noticeable to Others?
If you're considering a dental implant to replace missing teeth, you might be concerned about whether people will be able to tell you have an artificial tooth. You'll be able to smile, speak, chew and do everything you'd usually do with your natural teeth, and those speaking with you should not be able to tell that you have had a tooth replaced with a dental implant.
The tooth replacement that will sit on top of the abutment will closely resemble your natural teeth and be matched to the shade of your existing teeth in order to create a uniform aesthetic.
Do I Need To Take Special Care of Dental Implants?
Of course, an excellent oral hygiene routine will still be necessary once your dental implant has been placed. Brushing your teeth at least two times a day and flossing at least once per day will keep plaque from building up and causing gingivitis. You should also continue to see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
Our dental team is here to discuss dental implants with you further and to discuss any concerns that you may have.