Your dentist may have told you about the dental implant procedure, but what about your experience after the operation? Here, our Whitehorse dental team explains what you can expect from life with dental implants.
What are dental implants?
Are you missing one or more of your teeth? Your dentist may recommend that you get a dental implant to hold a tooth replacement like a crown or bridge.
Dental bridges or crowns are restorations that look and function similar to a natural tooth. Having our Whitehorse dentists place dental implants can help improve your oral and overall health.
What should I eat after surgery?
Eventually, you will be able to enjoy all the foods that you love with a dental implant in your mouth. However, in the immediate recovery period after your dental implant surgery, there are some foods you can eat and others you should try and avoid.
You’ll want to eat soft, nutritious food for the first few days after surgery. Here are some foods to stock up on:
- Jell-O
- Pudding
- Mashed potatoes (fibre-rich and soft, add cheese or gravy for flavour)
- Applesauce (high in fibre and vitamin C)
- 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.
The dental implant is fused with your jawbone and, when it is placed in your mouth, you will be able to drink, eat and speak without any hassle. If you are curious about how people with dental implants experience life, it may be worthwhile to look of reviews online for encouragement, tips and ideas.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are meant to last your lifetime and will only require occasional readjustments. When compared to other tooth replacement options, dental implants can serve as a long-lasting solution if they are properly cared for
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.
Your dentist will also be able to check in on the condition of your dental implant and the health of the teeth surrounding it. This will allow your dentist to address any gum issues or deterioration which may be occurring as soon as possible, 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.
Some oral health issues like periodontal disease can negatively impact the stability of your dental implant. In some instances, this may even cause an implant's failure. Because of this, it's important that you follow your dentist's or surgeon's instructions following the procedure.