Dental implants are artificial tooth roots placed into the jawbone and used to support one or more false teeth. They are a permanent solution that can last a lifetime with the proper care.
Proper aftercare is essential for successful dental implant recovery. Avoid hard and crunchy foods for at least two weeks after the procedure.
After these two weeks, you can start eating normally, but stick to soft and easily chewable foods for another few weeks until the implant has fully healed.
Use this guide to help you understand what to eat and when to eat it after your dental implant surgery.
What to Expect Immediately After Dental Implant Surgery
Immediately after your dental implant surgery, you may experience some bleeding, swelling, and discomfort in the implant area. This is normal and should subside within a few days. Pain can be managed with over-the-counter medications.
Immediately after: Pain and swelling
Pain and swelling can be expected in the area where your dental implant was placed. This should start to subside the same day or within a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter medications.
First few days: Bleeding and bruising
Bleeding and bruising may occur around the area of the implant. This should subside within a few days.
First few weeks: Dietary restrictions
You may experience some dietary restrictions following your dental implant surgery. It is important to eat soft foods for the first few weeks after your surgery and to avoid any hard, crunchy, or chewy foods. You should be able to eat normally within a few weeks of your surgery.
How Long to Wait Before Eating Normally After Dental Implant Surgery
A dental implant typically takes about 3-4 weeks to heal enough to begin eating normally again.
As your mouth heals, your mouth needs time to adjust to the new dental implant. Initially, soft foods should be eaten to avoid damaging or disturbing the implant site. As healing progresses, firmer foods can be introduced into your diet.
During the first few days after the dental implant surgery, you should focus on eating soft foods such as oatmeal, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, and yogurt.
After the implant has had time to set and heal (typically 3-4 weeks), you can start introducing firmer foods into your diet, such as chicken, fish, and other meats.
What Should You Eat While Implants are Healing?
Soft foods like oatmeal, mashed potatoes, and yogurt are the best for the first few days after dental implant surgery. You should also avoid hard foods such as nuts, chips, and hard candy. Additionally, you should avoid crunchy, chewy, and sticky foods such as pretzels, beef jerky, and gum.
Take a look at the following tips that will help you to know what to eat after implants:
Tips for Eating After Dental Implant Surgery
- Be sure to take small bites of your food and chew with the back teeth
- Avoid biting down directly on the implant area when chewing
- Take your time, and be sure to chew your food until it is in a soft consistency
- Drink plenty of fluids to keep your mouth hydrated.
Foods to Avoid
Foods to avoid after dental implant surgery include crunchy, chewy, and sticky foods such as pretzels, beef jerky, and gum. Additionally, you should avoid hard foods such as nuts, chips, and hard candy.
Chewing Techniques
When chewing, be sure to take small bites and chew with the back teeth. Avoid biting down directly on the implant area when chewing. Take your time when eating, and be sure to chew your food until it is in a very small and soft consistency.
FAQs: How Long After Dental Implants Can I Eat Normally?
How long do you have to eat soft food after dental implants?
Typically, your dentist will advise you to eat soft foods for around 3-4 weeks after dental implants have been placed. This allows enough time for the implant to heal and settle properly.
What can I eat 4 days after the dental implant?
Four days after dental implant surgery, you can typically begin eating softer foods such as yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and oatmeal.
How long does it take for dental implants to settle?
Dental implants usually take around 4-6 months to fully settle into the jawbone and become secure.
Can I eat pizza after a dental implant?
It is best to wait until your dental implant has healed fully before eating pizza, usually about 3-4 weeks after implant surgery.
Can I eat rice after a dental implant?
Yes, you can eat cooked rice after dental implant surgery, as long as it is cooked to a soft, mushy consistency.
Can I eat noodles after a dental implant?
Yes, you can eat cooked noodles after dental implant surgery, as long as they are cooked to a soft, mushy consistency.
How can I make my dental implant heal faster?
You can help your dental implant heal faster by following your dentist’s post-operative instructions, such as taking medications and avoiding strenuous activities.
Can I eat ice cream after getting a dental implant?
Yes, you can eat ice cream after dental implant surgery, as long as it is soft-serve and not too cold, to avoid irritation or discomfort.
Conclusion
Eating normally after dental implants depends on the individual and the severity of their implant placement. For most patients, complete healing and normal eating can take up to three months. However, some patients may require up to 6 months for a full recovery.
Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions is important to ensure a successful dental implant recovery. This may include taking pain medication, avoiding hard or crunchy foods, and keeping up with regular dental visits.
Hanna Dental Implants will help you with all your dental implant needs, including post-procedure support. Schedule a consultation with our dentist to discuss your dental needs today.