What to Eat (and Avoid!) After Getting Dental Implants

Are you seriously considering getting dental implants, and wondering what the post-operative recovery period is like? Look no further — we’ve got you covered. At R&J Dental, located in San Antonio, Texas, Habib Rahemtulla, DDS and our team of experts understand the importance of proper recovery care for successful healing and long-term implant success.

One essential aspect of post-implant care is your diet. Let's explore what foods to eat — and what to avoid — to support optimal healing and oral health after getting dental implants.

Foods to eat after dental implants 

After getting your dental implants, we highly recommend eating soft, nutrient-rich foods that won’t irritate or damage your surgical site. Here are some ideal options for a smooth recovery: 

Soft fruits

When in doubt, some go-to safe choices are applesauce, mashed bananas, ripe avocados, and cooked berries. These are all easy to chew and gentle on your gums. 

Cooked vegetables

Steamed or boiled vegetables like carrots, squash, and potatoes are soft and packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

Protein sources

Protein is especially important to prioritize during post-operative care as it can help support healing and tissue repair. We recommend opting for soft protein sources like eggs, fish, tofu, and well-cooked beans. 

Dairy products 

Essential for bone health, dairy products like yogurt, milkshakes, and soft cheeses are excellent sources of calcium and protein. 

Grains and legumes

Cooked grains like rice and quinoa, as well as soft legumes like lentils and chickpeas, provide energy and fiber without causing discomfort. 

Foods to avoid after dental implants 

While your mouth is healing after dental implant surgery, it’s important to avoid hard, crunchy, sticky, or acidic foods that could put a major strain on your healing process or even damage your implants. Here’s what to steer clear of: 

Hard foods

Avoid chewing on hard foods like nuts, seeds, raw vegetables, and hard candies, as they can apply excessive pressure on your implants and surrounding tissues. 

Crunchy snacks

Much like hard foods, it’s important to skip crunchy snacks like popcorn, pretzels, and chips, as they can irritate your surgical site and increase the risk of complications. 

Sticky foods

Sticky or chewy foods like caramel, taffy, and are a big “no” during your post-operative recovery. These foods can get stuck around your implant site and interfere with healing. 

Acidic foods and beverages

Avoid acidic foods and beverages like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and sodas. These can irritate your gums and increase the risk of inflammation and discomfort. 

Alcohol and tobacco

We highly recommend avoiding alcohol and tobacco products. These can negatively impact your healing process and increase the risk of infection and implant failure. 

Tips for eating comfortably after getting dental implants 

Now that you know more about what foods to eat and avoid after your procedure, you’re one step closer to a seamless dental implant recovery. Here are just a few extra tips to help make the process even more manageable: 

Plan ahead

One key way you can make your recovery a little easier is to plan ahead by stocking up on the soft, nutritious foods you’ll need before your surgery. 

Prepare meals in advance

Future you will thank you for preparing soft meals and snacks in advance. Give yourself convenient options that are ready to enjoy when you’re not feeling up to cooking. 

Stay hydrated

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and support healing, but avoid using straws, as the sucking motions can disrupt blood clots and increase the risk of complications. 

Follow our recommendations

After your procedure, we’ll provide specific dietary guidelines based on your individual needs and the details of your surgery. Follow our instructions closely to ensure a smooth recovery. 

All in all, proper nutrition plays a vital role in supporting healing and oral health after getting dental implants. By choosing soft, nutrient-rich foods and avoiding hard, sticky, or acidic options, you can promote optimal healing and minimize the risk of complications.

If you’re ready to learn more about dental implants and how to achieve the ideal outcome, call us to discuss your options at 210-828-9644 or click here to schedule an appointment with Dr. Rahemtulla today!