If you’re on a quest to restore your smile by having dental implants applied, we support you.
These small biocompatible titanium devices are genius in that they replicate the strength, structure and composition of your real teeth by acting as a replacement root tooth. If you’re missing one or more teeth and require effective restorative dentistry, dental implants can restore your smile. Life post-implant surgery may require a few minor lifestyle changes because your new teeth may feel a little different to your natural ones. Here are a few tips to remember when the recovery seems slow and frustrating.
- Go slow.
Initially, eating with implants will feel strange and a bit awkward. Therefore, eat soft foods and take minuscule bites. Cut your food into bit-sized strips and enjoy taking your time whilst you chew. If one side of your mouth feels tender, you can also chew on the other side until the sensitivity subsides.
- Chew with caution.
As bizarre as it seems, avoid biting with your front teeth. Biting down with these main choppers could destabilise them and thus cause soreness and increased sensitivity. Using your eye teeth (the canine tooth on the upper jaw), or other canines, clamp down gently on your food if you really need to bite down on your meal. If the aching continues, be sure to visit your dentist as soon as possible.
- Time heals all wounds
As your new teeth become accustomed to your mouth, you will find it easier to eat. As you become more confident and comfortable eating with your implants, start to introduce firmer foods. Steer clear of sticky and hard foods that could create unwanted sensitivity and rawness. If it makes it easier, chew on both sides on your mouth at the same time until your new dental appliance feels normal.
- All delicious things come to those who wait.
In due course you will be able to return to eating most foods you did prior to your implant application. We’d suggest steering clear of nuts and seeds as they could get stuck underneath the implant and irritate your gums. Unfortunately, you will need to always avoid the sticky and hard foods that are not suitable for the foundation of your implant.
- Keep on cleaning.
Dental implants are renowned for lasting up to 25 years. We want you to get a maximum return on investment for yours and that’s why it is vital to clean your implants exceptionally well. Interdental brushes are the most effective tools when it comes to cleaning the sides of your implants. Use the brush size recommended by your hygienist or dentist, and move the brush back and forth a few times close to each implant. These genius little brushes are also safe enough to use around your implants so that you don’t miss a morsel.
Adjusting to dental implants can seem like a long and frustrating process accompanied by tenderness and pain. Once the devices have moulded to your mouth, they will feel and look as natural as possible. If you’re considering dental implants, you should partner with a prosthodontist that puts your needs and oral health, first. Dr. Jim Ironside and his superior team at Ironside Advanced Dental have the tools and technology to create a custom dental treatment for you. Book an appointment today and pave the way to a healthier smile.
All surgical procedures carry risk. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.