Are There Summer Foods You’ll Have to Avoid with Dental Implants?

Dental implants have become the gold standard for a comprehensive tooth-replacement option. And if you just received them this summer, then you can be sure to enjoy many of your favorite meals throughout the season! However, you might be wondering if you’ll need to be cautious with your restorations during mealtime to help preserve them. Keep reading to learn what you can expect from your dental implants and tips on keeping them in pristine condition!

What Summer Foods Can You Enjoy with Dental Implants?

Many dental restoration options like dentures and dental bridges rely on your gums and other remaining teeth to remain secure in your mouth. On the other hand, dental implants are surgically embedded into your jawbone. By directly anchoring your restoration(s) to the titanium posts, you’ll feel as though you have your natural pearly whites again. This means you won’t have to worry about your new teeth shifting out of place when eating or speaking. You won’t have to hold back from munching on all your favorite foods this summer.

Which Meals Should You Watch Out for After Getting Dental Implants?

Although dental implants will look and feel as durable as your permanent teeth, they can still be vulnerable to damage. This is especially so after getting them placed, as one wrong bite can interfere with osseointegration. Here are several foods you may want to avoid during this process:

• Hard foods: These meals may include nuts, chips, and apples, which can disrupt your metal posts as they bond with your jawbone.
• Corn on the cob: You might consider cutting the corn off of the cob before eating it, as you won’t want to interfere with your healing process.
• Hot dogs: Although these tasty summer snacks aren’t tough to chew, they are packed with processed saturate fat. This can cause gum inflammation, which can lead to periodontal disease and prevent a successful dental implant treatment.
• Sugary drinks: Beverages that are loaded with sugar, such as soda and sports drinks, are detrimental to your dental health. By increasing the risk of developing cavities in your other teeth, they can make your dental implants more likely to fail.

Tips to Preserve Your New Smile

To maintain your new pearly whites, it’s important to keep them clean by brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash frequently. You can also try sticking with a well-balanced diet, making sure to eat foods that are rich in calcium, fibers, and vitamin D. Be sure to schedule checkups with your dentist every six months or sooner, that way they can assess your oral health and address any developing issues they may detect.

Once your dental implants have successfully bonded to your jawbone, you can expect to regain your chewing power. This means you’ll be able to eat all your favorite foods and show off a healthy smile for many years to come!

About the Author

Dr. Laura Philipps is a member of several groups like the Texas Dental Association and the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health. She studied at Tufts University and regularly seeks advanced training to refine her techniques and expertise. Dr. Philipps provides multiple high-quality services, including dental implants and checkups/cleanings to help you maintain good oral health. If you’d like to know more about caring for dental implants, visit her website or call 432-570-4433.