What to Eat After Dental Implant Surgery

Dental implant surgery is a complex dental procedure that requires a significant amount of healing time. Eating a healthy diet is one of the most important things you can do to ensure a smooth recovery. But what exactly should you eat after dental implant surgery? And what foods should you avoid? 

Whether preparing for surgery or recovering, our West Omaha dentists explain the best foods to eat after dental implants and provide tips to help you easily navigate recovery. 

What Can You Eat After Dental Implant Surgery?

The foods you eat after dental implant surgery will depend on the type of surgery you have and the healing process. However, there are some general guidelines that you can follow.

Immediately After Surgery

Prioritize soft foods. In the first few days after surgery, you will want to eat soft foods that are easy to chew. This will help to reduce the risk of damaging the surgical site. 

Some good food options include:

• Soups

• Mashed potatoes

• Yogurt

• Scrambled eggs

• Pudding

• Jell-O

• Soft pasta

The Week After Surgery

After about one-week post-surgery, you can begin eating foods that require a bit more chewing, such as pasta, rice, meat, and vegetables. However, it is still important to avoid any foods that may aggravate the surgical site. Brushing your teeth gently and flossing carefully after each meal is also imperative to prevent plaque buildup.

Fruits & Vegetables 

Adding in fruits and vegetables can aid in your recovery. Try to find soft, seedless fruits like mangoes, peaches, bananas, and plums.

Grains & Bread 

Adding in grains can be a bit more challenging, as you still want to ensure they’re semi-soft. We recommend protein-rich grains like rolled oats, wild rice, and farro. Soft breads and pastries can also be added to your diet at this time. 

Protein

In addition to protein-rich grains, you can introduce soft meats like fish or shredded, steamed chicken. Soups and stews can provide needed protein with minimal chewing. You should continue to be mindful of the temperature to prevent problems as you heal. 

Over the Next Few Weeks

In the weeks following dental surgery, being mindful of what you eat is vital. To ensure that your surgical site has a chance to heal, your diet should primarily consist of soft foods and liquids. 

As you start to feel better, you may begin adding more variety. We can provide more information about post-surgery care instructions and dietary restrictions during your appointment; call us today for more details!

Foods to Avoid After Dental Implant Surgery

After your surgery, you must avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods. These foods can press on the surgical site and cause pain, bleeding, and slow healing. Avoiding these foods for at least two weeks after surgery is best. 

Some examples of foods to avoid include:

• Nuts

• Popcorn

• Hard candy

• Chewing gum

• Steak

• Crunchy vegetables

You will also want to avoid eating spicy foods, which can irritate the surgical site. Additionally, you should avoid foods served at a high temperature, as the heat can promote bacterial growth and slow healing. You should abstain from drinking alcohol, at least throughout your antibiotics.

How Soon After Implant Surgery Can I Eat Normally?

Dental implants are a permanent tooth-replacement option surgically placed into the jawbone. Once the implants are in place, they will be strong and secure, and you can resume a regular diet. However, the exact time frame for eating normally after surgery will vary depending on your circumstances.

Typically, most people can eat a full, normal diet within a few weeks after surgery. However, following your dentist's instructions carefully after surgery is important. As discussed above, your dentist will likely recommend avoiding certain foods for a few weeks. We recommend gently using a soft toothbrush and carefully flossing after each meal to maintain good hygiene.

Dental Implants in Omaha, NE

Do you want to learn more about the dental implant process? Contact our Omaha, NE office to schedule an appointment, or call us at 402-498-8804 to determine if dental implants are right for you!

About the Author: Drs. Sharlene and Robert Wilson offer various general and cosmetic dentistry services in Omaha, NE. They earned their doctorate from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry. With over 30 years of combined experience, both are committed to helping patients achieve beautiful, healthy, and long-lasting smiles. Call 402-498-8804 to schedule an appointment.