Life After Dental Implants: What you Need to Know

Your dentist has explained how the dental implants procedure works — but what about after the operation? In this post, our Abbotsford dentists describe what you can expect from life after implants. 

What are dental implants?

If you are missing one or more teeth, your dentist may recommend a dental implant. This can be topped with a tooth replacement such as a crown or bridge. 

Dental bridges or crowns are restorations that look and function just like a natural tooth. Having your dentist in Abbotsford place dental implants can help improve your overall and overall health. 

What should I eat after surgery?

Eventually, you’ll be able to enjoy all the foods you love with a dental implant. However, while recovering from your dental implant surgery there are a few foods you should eat, and some you should avoid as they can irritate the incision site.

You’ll want to eat soft, nutritious food for the first few days after surgery. Here are some foods to stock up on:

  • 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 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 implants are fused to the jawbone and you’ll be able to speak, eat and drink without hassle. 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 do dental implants last?

Dental implants typically only require occasional readjustments and are meant to last a lifetime. Compared to other teeth replacement alternatives, if cared for properly dental implants can be a long-lasting solution. 

Depending on your circumstances, implants may be a more cost-effective solution in terms of lifetime cost when compared to crowns or bridges, 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.

He or she will also 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 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.

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.

Curious about what life after dental implants will be like for you? Our Abbotsford dentists can explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today.

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