Life After Dental Implants: What You Need to Know

Your dentist has spoken with you about the procedure for placing dental implants into your jaw. But what about after the operation? Here, our Winnipeg dental team explains what you should expect from your life after dental implants.

What are dental implants?

Are you missing a tooth or two? Your dentist may recommend dental implants as a long-term option for holding a tooth replacement like a crown or bridge in place. 

Dental bridges or crowns are restorations that look and function similar to a natural tooth. Having our Winnipeg dentists place dental implants can help improve your oral and overall health.

What should I eat after surgery?

You will eventually be able to enjoy the foods you love after receiving dental implants. However, while recovering from your implant surgery. there are some foods you should eat and some you can avoid as they are capable of irritating the incision site. 

You’ll want to eat soft, nutritious food for the first few days after surgery. Here are some foods to stock up on:

  • Pudding
  • Applesauce (high in fibre and vitamin C)
  • Jell-O
  • Yogurt (no nuts or granola, though)
  • Mashed potatoes (fibre-rich and soft, add cheese or gravy for flavour)
  • Warm, broth-based soups (Filled with essential vitamins and protein-rich)

Will my dental implants function like my natural teeth?

Dental implants are both a long-term and customizable tooth replacement solution. Your dentist or surgeon will select replacement teeth that blend in well with your teeth's natural colour. 

The implants are fused to the bones of your jaw and you'll be able to drink, eat and speak without any hassle. If you are curious about how people experience life with dental implants, it may be worth it to search for reviews of dental implants online for encouragement and tips. 

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants are meant to last a lifetime, and usually only need occasional readjustments. Compared to other teeth replacement options, dental implants can be a long-lasting solution if they are cared for properly.

Depending on your individual case, implants may be a more cost-effective solution over the course of your life when compared to crowns and bridges on their own, when may need to be replaced sooner. 

Proper Care

Taking care of your dental implants is as easy as maintaining your natural smile. Make sure that you brush and floss twice every day since great oral healthcare is critical to your implant's long-term success. 

Regular Dental Appointments

Alongside a diligent oral healthcare routine, it's imperative to continue to visit your dentist twice every year. At these visits, your dentist will conduct a thorough cleaning of your mouth to keep your gums and teeth healthy.

He or she will also check the condition of your dental implant, and the health of your surrounding teeth. This allows your dentist to address any gum issues or deterioration early, or potentially prevent them entirely.

How can I maintain excellent health?

Lifestyle choices like abstaining from excessive drinking of alcohol or smoking are important factors in your overall and oral health when it comes to maintaining your dental implants. 

Certain diseases such as periodontal disease or other conditions can lead to an increased risk of instability, or dental implant failure. That’s why it’s important to follow your dentist’s or surgeon’s instructions after your procedure.

Are you wondering what your life will look like after you have dental implants placed in your mouth? Our Winnipeg dentists can explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have.

New Patients Always Welcome

Looking for a dentist in Winnipeg? We're happily accepting new patients at our dental clinic! Contact us to get started today. 

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(204) 334-6095