As you go about the dental implant process, the day has finally come to get the post inserted into your jaw. You may be excited that you’re a step closer to your full smile, but you will need to have oral surgery to have it placed. It’s important that you help yourself heal smoothly once you’re done, and what you eat can have an impact on it! Here are four foods that you should avoid after your procedure.
1.) Tough and Chewy Meats
Although you may love a juicy steak or a pork chop, they and other similar meats are often tough. You will need to chew them for longer before you can swallow them, but this can make your mouth sore and lead to discomfort. Simply tenderize them before you cook them, cut them into smaller pieces, or choose softer cuts in general.
2.) Crunchy Snacks
A favorite snack of yours might be a bag of chips or a handful of nuts, but their crunch can cause some problems for your newly placed implant. They need a stronger bite force to get through, or they may break off into sharp pieces. Your replacement can receive too much pressure on it or accidentally injure your healing gum tissue. It’s best to avoid them for now and choose softer options, like bananas or ripe peaches.
3.) Sticky Treats
You may enjoy taffy, caramel, gummies, and the like, but you shouldn’t eat these either. They can easily cling to your teeth, which can trap bacteria and lead to oral health issues that may increase your risk of failure. Not only that, but the nature of these sweets can also pull at your implant.
4.) Spicy Meals
If you tend to enjoy a spicy kick to your meals, then you should dial it back for a bit. Keep it mellow or mild, as hot peppers can make the soft tissues of your mouth inflamed or irritated. The tenderness can be uncomfortable to deal with after your placement procedure.
5.) Overall Hot Options
It’s also important that the food you eat isn’t too hot in general. When it is temperature-wise, you risk burning your mouth, but also it can increase blood flow. You may bleed more or notice swelling around your implant. Instead, make sure you let your meals cool down.
In the end, you are getting closer to a full smile you love. Over time, you will be able to reintroduce some of the items above, but be sure you listen to your body. If you notice discomfort, then wait a bit longer for them; that way, you do your part in making sure you heal properly.
About the Practice
At Seaside Dental of New Smyrna Beach, you benefit from the skilled leadership of Dr. Tyler Flynn and Dr. Thinh Tran. We are dedicated to helping the local community restore their missing teeth with reliable options like dental implants. By doing the entire procedure in-office, you get to stay with a team you trust every step of the way. If you want to know how you can have a smooth recovery after your placement surgery, schedule an appointment or call our office at (386) 428-1270.