You've learned about the dental implants procedure — but what about after the operation. Here, our Winnipeg dentists share 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 to hold a tooth replacement such as a crown or bridge in place.
Dental crowns or bridges are restorations that look and function much like a natural tooth. Having our dentists in Winnipeg place dental implants can help improve your oral and overall health.
What foods can I eat after surgery?
Eventually, you'll be back to enjoying all the foods you love with a dental implant. That said, there are a few foods you should eat and some you should avoid while recovering from your dental implant surgery. This is because the incision site may become irritated by certain foods.
For the first few days following surgery, choose soft, nutritious food. Here are some foods you can stock up on:
- Yogurt (no nuts or granola, though)
- Mashed potatoes (fibre-rich and soft, add cheese or gravy for flavour)
- Pudding
- Applesauce (high in fibre and vitamin C)
- Warm, broth-based soups (Filled with essential vitamins and protein-rich)
- Jell-O
Will my dental implants function like my natural teeth?
Customizable dental implants are a long-term solution. Your dentist will choose replacement teeth that best blend with your natural teeth.
Your dental implant will be fused to the jawbone and you'll be able to chew, drink and speak without problems. If you are curious about how people experience life with dental implants, you may want to research dental implant reviews online for tips, encouragement and ideas.
How long do dental implants last?
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.
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 instructions after your procedure.