Tips From an Oral Surgeon for What to Eat After Dental Implant Surgery

As an oral surgeon, we perform dental implants oral surgery on a regular basis. This procedure allows us to give our patients a permanent replacement solution for a missing tooth and root. An implant is unlike dentures or a dental bridge that only attempts to replace the tooth. Dental implants are the more durable and long-lasting solution to tooth loss that you can get. Simultaneously, once an implant is in place, it serves to strengthen and preserve the jawbone, providing necessary stimulation. For this and many reasons, implants are among the most preferred restorative solutions that we offer.

Dental Implant Surgery Recovery Tips

Since placing an implant requires us to surgically insert a titanium post under the gums, we typically do so with the use of anesthesia to help the patient not feel pain during the surgery. Since we cut the gums open, there is a natural recovery time where one will need to be careful with what he or she eats. This recovery period is different for every person, varying on overall health, age, and how many implants we place. We can let patients know what to expect during a pre-operative appointment.

After the dental implants oral surgery, it is important to keep up the intake of highly nutritious foods since this gives the body the best opportunity for a fast recovery. Many people make the mistake of not eating or eating very little after having oral surgery. While understandable, if one deprives the body of essential nutrients it can delay the recovery process. As an oral surgeon, here are some meals that we recommend you try during your recovery period.

Breakfast

While an important meal, many people skip breakfast even before having oral surgery. One of the best ways to receive the nutrients that one needs is to blend fruit, vegetables, yogurt, and protein powder to make a nutritious smoothie. Patients can drink it on the go, and if they are uncomfortable from the procedure, this will ensure that they still eat a healthy meal without needing to chew. Patients can have a smoothie multiple times a day if they choose.

Another option is to eat scrambled or hard boiled eggs for breakfast. They are full of protein and as an oral surgeon, we find that this is a convenient meal for most of our patients to make. Patients can even buy egg beaters in liquid form, a product one can find at the grocery store.

Lunch

Try hummus on soft bread. Hummus is nutritious and incredibly soft. Patients can even eat it by itself, add a side of cool yogurt to balance out the meal or a side of applesauce.

Dinner

As an oral surgeon, we know that this is one of the most difficult meals to replace. Instead of eating meat that is difficult to chew like beef, chicken, or pork, eat flaky fish that patients do not need to chew very much. Patients can also try making a potato or vegetable soup. Most soups can be blended to make them even easier to eat.

After your dental implants oral surgery, it is important to focus on your health and recovery. We can provide you with more tips and suggestions during your appointment.