Dental implants have quickly become the preferred method of tooth replacement in the United States, allowing patients with missing teeth to enjoy the benefits of a complete smile once again. Following your dental implant procedure, you may wonder what kind of post-surgery diet to follow while you heal. At JL Dental in Arnold, MO, Dr. Jonathan and Laura Mears offer both the surgical placement and restorative steps of the dental implant process, as well as helpful information regarding post-op recovery.
Oral Surgery Post-Op Diet
While our doctors will provide you with specific instructions regarding post-op careafter your surgery, there are a few fundamental aspects of recovery you can keep in mind now and following your procedure to ensure a successful recovery.
First, it is important to remember that food is the fuel your body needs to heal following any surgery, so you have to get the right nutrients into your diet every day. Because your gums will be sensitive at first, it is recommended that you stick to a diet of soft foods for the first few days following the placement of your dental implants. Smoothies, oatmeal, soups, and broths are great choices, as are mashed potatoes and yogurts. Moving on to foods like cooked vegetables and soft meats is recommended when your mouth feels capable of handling them without pain. A good rule of thumb is to avoid eating anything that hurts your gums, including crunchy snacks like chips or nuts.
Protein, calcium, and iron are all integral factors of healing after surgery. Eggs, milk, yogurt, cheese, beans, and leafy greens like spinach and kale are ideal sources of these vital nutrients. Talk to our doctors if you have any questions about your diet or your surgical site following your procedure.
Your Healthiest Smile Yet
Whether you have recently undergone dental implant surgery or you are planning your procedure for the near future, we are here to help you along every step of the way. Contact our office in Arnold, MO today to schedule your consultation with our experienced, caring doctors. We look forward to helping you achieve optimal oral health and a more beautiful smile with dental implants. Our family-friendly office happily serves patients from throughout Arnold and the surrounding areas, including Oakville, Barnhart, Imperial, and beyond.