Summer Foods to Enjoy When You Have Dental Implants

Tooth loss is a common problem that millions of Americans face. Fortunately, just because you have missing teeth doesn’t mean that you need to go the rest of your life without them. There are several different tooth replacement options out there to choose from, like dental implants. Implants provide numerous benefits, including the fact that you won’t need to deal with eating restrictions after they completely heal.

What Summer Foods Can You Enjoy After Dental Implant Placement?

Before your implants have been able to heal completely, you will need to take easy when it comes to the texture of the foods you are eating. The good news is that there are still some delicious summer foods that you can still enjoy. Here are a handful of examples:

• Avocado
• Baked beans
• Scrambled eggs
• Bananas
• Smoothies
• Noodles
• Fish
• Rice dishes

Which Summer Foods Should You Avoid After Dental Implant Placement?

While your implants are still in the healing process, it is a good idea to avoid the following foods:

• Corn on the cob: If you’re looking for a side of corn with your meal, cut it off of the cob so that you don’t disturb the dental implant healing process.
• Hot dogs: A hotdog with your favorite condiments is delicious on a hot summer day, but it’s loaded with processed saturated fat. This leads to gum inflammation and even periodontal disease. You can enjoy one every once in a while, but it’s better to save this summer favorite for special occasions.
• Sugary drinks: Soda, fruit juices, sweet tea, and sports drinks are terrible for your natural teeth. Even though they don’t cause much harm to your replacement teeth, they could damage your surrounding teeth and cause dental issues in your mouth.
• Hard foods: This includes chips, nuts, and apples. They can be hard on your implants as they are still fusing with your jawbone. They are best to avoid until the healing process is complete.

After Your Implants Heal, Which Summer Foods Can You Enjoy?

You can eat pretty much anything you’d like once your implants fully fuse with your jawbone. This includes your favorite summer foods, like meat and other meals that are more difficult to chew.  If you’re not sure about a particular food, give your dentist a call. They will be able to give you the best advice for your smile.

After your implants have completely healed, you are in the clear! By replacing your missing teeth and being patient, your menu will open up once again! Bon appétit!

About the Author

Dr. Travis A. Markle earned his dental doctorate at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio and has participated in hundreds of hours of continuing education to keep his knowledge and skills sharp. He is recognized as a Fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry and an Associate Fellow in the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule an appointment at his office in Tyler, visit his website or call (903) 597-7902.