Dental implants are a popular choice for replacing missing or damaged teeth. However, the healing journey needs meticulous care. There are certain dietary restrictions after getting a dental implant, such as having no dairy after the surgery.
Yes, it is actually quite surprising. But why is that? Let’s find out.
Why Should You Not Consume Dairy After Getting Dental Implants?
Dairy products are generally healthy and nutritious. They provide us with a rich source of calcium, vitamin D, and other essential nutrients. However, after dental implant surgery, dairy products hinder the healing process and may even lead to complications.
Dairy items are full of proteins and fats, creating a breeding ground for bacteria in your mouth. Bacteria result in infections and slow down the healing process of your implant. Additionally, such edibles are acidic; they irritate the surgical site and lead to discomfort.
Moreover, dairy products have lactose – a type of sugar that forms a sticky film on your teeth. This, in turn, causes an increase in the risk of plaque buildup and gum disease. This can compromise the stability of the implant and even lead to implant failure.
What To Eat After Getting Dental Implants
While you may avoid certain dairy products after dental implant surgery, there are plenty of other nutritious foods that you can enjoy.
Protein-rich foods: Lean meat, fish, eggs, and legumes heal and help speed up the recovery process.
Soft foods: Mashed potatoes, cooked vegetables, and soups are easily eaten without putting pressure on the implant site.
Fruits and vegetables: They are rich in vitamins and minerals to boost your immune system and promote healing.
Whole grains: Whole grains such as brown rice and whole-wheat bread are great sources of fiber, which can help regulate your digestion.
List of What To Avoid After Dental Implantation
The foods and habits you should avoid include the following:
Dairy products: As discussed earlier, dairy products hinder the healing process and may cause implant failure.
Hard and crunchy foods: Foods like nuts, popcorn, and chips put pressure on the implant site and compromise its stability.
Sticky and chewy foods: Foods like caramel and chewing gum stick to the implant site and interfere with the healing.
Alcohol and tobacco: Both alcohol and tobacco delay healing and increase the risk of infections.
Hot and spicy foods: They irritate the surgical site and lead to discomfort.
Final Note
Dental implant surgery is a major investment in your well-being, financially, physically, and emotionally.
To ensure the best result, follow your dentist’s instructions and take good care of your implant.
While it may be an issue to give up your favorite dairy items, it is a sacrifice to make for a short while. Once your implant has fully healed, you can resume your normal diet and enjoy all the dairy products you love.
Contact Us
By following a healthy diet, you can help your implant integrate with your jawbone and enjoy a beautiful, healthy smile for years to come. Talk to the best dental care experts from Smile 360 Family Dentistry to learn more about this.