What is it like living with dental implants?

Has your dentist recommended a dental implant? You are probably wondering what your life will be like with one. Today, our Carbonear dentists share a few things you can expect in your daily life once your dental implant has been placed.

Your Daily Life With Your Dental Implant

Your dentist will probably suggest eating a soft foods diet for the first 24 hours or so after your dental implant procedure. In some situations, patients may have to stay on this soft food diet for up to 7 days after their operation, so it's a good idea to have a lot of these foods ready.

Some foods we recommend eating during this time include mashed potatoes, smoothies, applesauce, meal replacement drinks, smooth soups (not chunky), homemade broth and bouillon, juices, and protein drinks. Avoid citrus fruits, which could cause damage to your tooth enamel. 

Follow your dentist's instructions and you'll increase your chances for a smooth recovery. 

Dental Implants Work Like Your Natural Teeth

If you are one of the many people who loves indulging in foods such as apples, steaks, nuts, spare ribs, corn on the cob, tacos, and other culinary wonders, the good news is that with a dental implant, you'll be able to keep eating all of these things. You will also be able to keep smiling and talking as you normally would with your natural teeth. That's because dental implants are designed to replace tooth roots and chew through these hard-to-chew foods, much like your natural teeth.  

Implants are placed below your gum line and fuse with your jawbone. So, once your tissues in the affected area have had time to heal, you won't need to worry about your dental implant falling out since the titanium is anchored to the jawbone. The tooth replacement (a crown, bridge, or denture) will be placed on top of the implant to act as the biting surface of the tooth. 

Casual Observers Shouldn't Notice Your Dental Implant

If you are thinking about getting a dental implant to replace your missing teeth, you may be worried if other people will be able to tell if you have an artificial tooth. Rest assured, you'll be able to smile, speak, chew and do everything you'd usually do with your natural teeth, and a casual observer will be hard-pressed to spot that you have a dental implant. 

The tooth replacement that will sit on top of the abutment will closely resemble your natural teeth and be matched to the shade of your existing teeth in order to create a uniform aesthetic. 

Caring For Your Dental Implant

You will still have to maintain an excellent oral hygiene routine once your dental implant has been placed. Brushing your teeth at least two times a day and flossing at least once per day will keep plaque from building up and causing gingivitis. You should also keep attending regular appointments with your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. 

 Contact our Carbonear dentists today to schedule an appointment and ask any questions you may have about dental implants.

New Patients Always Welcome

Looking for a dentist in Carbonear? We're happily accepting new patients at our dental clinic! Contact us to get started today. 

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