Your Calgary Invisalign® Provider
If you are planning on having a dental implant procedure done then you may know what to expect during the surgery but what should you expect once you have dental implants? Today, our Calgary dentists explain what to expect from life after implants.
What are dental implants?
If you are missing one or more teeth due to various causes your dentist may recommend having a dental implant procedure to hold a tooth replacement such as a bridge or crown in place.
These dental bridges or crowns are restorations that take on the function and appearance of real teeth. Having our Calgary dentists place dental implants can help improve your oral and overall health.
What am I able to eat after dental implant surgery?
While you may be able to enjoy all of the foods you love once the implant is healed, you will have to be cautious of the foods that you choose to eat while the incision is still healing.
For the first few days after surgery, you will want to make sure that the foods you choose to eat are soft and healthy. 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)
Are dental implants just like having my own teeth?
Dental implants are meant to last a very long time and luckily are fully customizable in order to ensure that they blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth. 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 can I expect my dental implants to last?
While these dental implants are made to last for a lifetime you will need to occasionally visit your dentist and have adjustments made to your implant. 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.
Providing proper care for your implants
One of the easiest things about having dental implants is that they behave just as your natural teeth do and caring for them is similar. Make sure to brush and floss twice a day, as a great oral healthcare routine is essential to your implant’s long-term success.
Routine dental checkups
Twice-yearly dental visits are important to your oral health regardless of whether or not you have dental implants. 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.
Maintaining lifelong dental 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.