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Your dentist might have discussed the dental implant procedure with you, but what about life after dental implants? Today, our Southwood Dental Studio - Highbury dentists talk about what you can expect after you have had a dental implant procedure.
What are dental implants and why are they needed?
If you are missing one or more teeth then your dentist may recommend a dental implant for you 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 Highbury (Kilally Road) dentists in London place dental implants can help improve your oral and overall health.
What should my diet be after dental implant surgery?
Once your dental implant is set and healed you should be able to resume eating the foods you would normally eat. However, when you are still recovering from dental implant surgery you will need to be cautious and there are a few foods you should eat, and some you should avoid as they can irritate the incision site.
It is a good idea to eat soft, nutritious food initially once surgery has been completed. Here are some foods you will want to have on hand:
- 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 I be able to use my teeth as usual after dental implants?
Dental implants are typically chosen because they provide a long-term solution and can be customized for the patient. Your surgeon will choose replacement teeth that blend well with your natural teeth.
As the implants are fused to the jawbone you will be able to resume life as usual once you have had this procedure. 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 should I expect dental implants to last?
While dental implants may require occasional adjustments, they are made and set to last a lifetime. Compared to other teeth replacement options, dental implants can be an ideal long-lasting solution when they are 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.
Caring for dental implants
When it comes to caring for your dental implants it is the same as caring for your own teeth. Be sure to brush and floss twice a day, as a great oral healthcare routine is essential to your implant’s long-term success.
Routine dental care
Ensuring daily oral hygiene is important for your overall oral health, but it is also important to be sure 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.
During these visits, your dentist will 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 ensure ongoing oral 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.