Do you love summer foods? Whether you cannot get enough of fresh fruits, tasty grilled meats, or other seasonal treats, this time of year is full of options for satisfying and delicious meals! Sadly, though, tooth loss might prevent you from getting to enjoy your favorite summer foods to the fullest extent. The good news is that dental implants can help! Continue reading to discover how this unique form of tooth replacement can allow you to consume a varied and satisfying diet.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small posts, or cylinders, constructed of a titanium alloy. Once they are surgically placed within the jawbone, they have the ability to act as prosthetic tooth roots. They can support crowns, bridges, and dentures. Experts around the world regard dental implants as the best way to replace lost teeth.
Complete dental implant treatment can take several months, so if you get started with the process now, you might be able to fully enjoy their benefits by this time next year!
What Can You Eat with Dental Implants?
Because dental implants are so strong and sturdy, there are no real “off-limits” foods with them. Unlike regular dentures, they will not destabilize if you bite into tough or chewy foods. Here are a few examples of summer delights that people with dental implants are able to enjoy:
- Grilled meats, including steaks, chicken, and even bone-in ribs.
- Corn on the cob.
- Fresh fruits and crisp vegetables.
- Crunchy and chewy desserts.
Tips for Eating with Dental Implants
Eating with dental implants does not require any special techniques. However, just like natural teeth, it would still be wise to take some prudent precautions. Here are a few tips to keep dental implants looking good and functioning optimally:
- Be careful with hard foods. Dental implant crowns, bridges, and dentures are durable, but they can still break if you bite down too hard on things like bone-in meats or unpopped popcorn kernels. You should also avoid chewing on ice.
- Enjoy sugar in moderation. Ice cream, sweetened iced tea, and other cold treats are refreshing during hot summer weather. However, you should be careful not to overindulge. Even though dental implants are invulnerable to cavities, sugar can still increase the risk of other types of oral infections.
- Be diligent about oral hygiene. It is wise to brush your teeth about 30 – 60 minutes after each meal. Try carrying a small dental hygiene kit with you so your smile can stay fresh on the go.
- Keep up with preventive dental care. Visiting your general dentist twice a year for a cleaning and checkup can reduce the risk of problems with your dental implants.
Tooth loss does not have to prevent you from enjoying summertime treats! Talk to your dentist to find out if your missing teeth can be replaced with dental implants.
Meet the Practice
The board-certified oral surgeons at Piney Point Dental Implant Center specialize in providing expert dental implant services. If you are struggling with the consequences of tooth loss or frail teeth, our team can evaluate the situation and design a treatment plan. To learn more about how we may be able to serve you, contact our Houston office at 713-597-7340.