Dental implants are a common and effective way to replace missing teeth. The surgery, however, can leave your mouth sore and sensitive. It is important to take care of your mouth after dental implant surgery and eat soft foods that will not irritate your mouth.
Breaking Down the Do’s and Don’ts
After surgical procedures, it’s common for patients to feel a little out of sorts. Eating can be difficult and sometimes painful. When it comes to dental implants, you want to make sure you give your body the nutrients it needs to heal properly while avoiding foods that could cause problems.
DO eat soft fruits and vegetables. These will give your body the vitamins and minerals it needs without putting unnecessary strain on your healing gums. Think about foods like mashed potatoes, squash, applesauce, and steamed broccoli.
DON’T eat hard snacks or chewy candy. Anything that’s hard to bite down on could damage your newly placed implants or irritate your gums. Steer clear of nuts, popcorn, chips, chewy candy, and crunchy granola bars.
DO drink plenty of fluids. It’s important to stay hydrated after any surgery, but especially when you’re dealing with open wounds in your mouth. Water is always the best option, but things like unsweetened tea, bone broth, and coconut water can also help with inflammation and pain relief. Just avoid anything with caffeine which can cause dehydration.
DON’T drink alcohol or use straws. Alcohol can lead to dehydration and increase the risk of bleeding at the implant site. Straws put unnecessary pressure on your teeth which can loosen them or damage your implants before they have a chance to fully heal.
Here are some examples of soft foods you can eat after dental implant surgery:
- Applesauce
- Eggs
- Smoothies
- Soups
- Mashed Potatoes
- Cooked Vegetables
- Beans
- Rice
- Fish
- Chicken
- Pasta
It is important to avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods as they can cause pain or damage to your surgical site. You should also avoid spicy or acidic foods as they can irritate your healing wounds.
Drink plenty of fluids and avoid hot beverages for the first 24 hours following surgery. If you have any questions about what you should or shouldn’t be eating, be sure to ask your dentist or oral surgeon.
After having dental implant surgery, it is important to take care of your mouth and eat soft foods that will not contribute to further irritation. There are many different soft food options available so you can still have a varied and interesting diet while you heal.
Be sure to avoid hard, crunchy, acidic, or spicy foods as well as hot beverages for at least the first day following surgery. If you have any questions about what you can or cannot eat, be sure to ask your dentist or oral surgeon for guidance.
Contact iHeartDDS in Valencia, CA
iHeartDDS
27420 Tourney Rd #240
Valencia, CA 91355
(661) 254-5200