“Will I have to change my diet when I get dental implants?” That question is something that many patients wonder about. After all, no one wants to give up their favorite snacks and meals. The good news is that dental implants are the next best thing to natural teeth, so you can feel free to indulge in virtually any food after the implants are solidly integrated with your jawbone. However, there are some points you should keep in mind as you are deciding what to eat. This blog post provides some practical guidance.
Your Diet Can Affect the Longevity of Your Dental Implants
With proper care, dental implants have the potential to endure for decades. In fact, they might last throughout your lifetime. However, there are a few bad dietary habits that could cause damage and shorten their lifespan:
- Overconsumption of alcohol. It is fine to have an occasional drink, but moderation is important. Drinking large amounts of alcohol could make you more vulnerable to infections that could attack the tissue around your dental implants.
- Overindulgence in sugar. Of course, there is nothing wrong with having a sweet treat once in a while, but a high-sugar diet can be dangerous. Sugar can interact with the bacteria in your mouth, leading to the formation of plaque. It can also increase your risk of gum disease.
- Hard foods. Extremely hard foods might break your implant restorations, so it is best to stay away from them. For example, you should avoid jawbreaker candies.
Food that Support Dental Implant Wellness
Here are some types of foods that can support the well-being of your dental implants:
- Foods that are rich in calcium and vitamin D. Calcium and vitamin D work together to promote healthy, strong bones. That means they can prevent your jawbone from weakening so your implants always have a strong base of support. Leafy greens, fortified milk and other dairy products, fortified breakfast cereal, and egg yolks all fit into this category.
- Foods that support a healthy immune system. A healthy immune system can reduce your risk of oral infections. Foods that have a reputation for supporting immunity include citrus fruits, garlic, onions, green tea, nuts, and seeds.
- Anti-inflammatory foods. Chronic inflammation can spell trouble for your entire body, including your implants. Some foods that help to reduce inflammation include turmeric, berries, nuts, fatty fish, and olive oil.
- Hydrating foods and drinks. Adequate hydration promotes saliva production, and saliva is essential for a healthy smile. In addition to drinking enough water, you can also eat other hydrating foods and beverages, like fresh fruits and vegetables, coconut water, and milk.
Most people do not have to make radical changes to their eating habits after they get dental implants. If you enjoy a variety of healthy foods along with an occasional treat, your smile is likely to thrive.
Meet the Practice
The three oral surgeons at Piney Point Dental Implant Center are proud to help residents of the Houston area rebuild their lost smiles. If you have questions about dental implants or how to care for them, we are ready to speak with you. Contact our practice at 713-597-7340.