What is it like living with dental implants?

Are you considering replacing your tooth with a dental implant? In this blog, our Antigonish dentists discuss what you can expect on an average day with a dental implant.

Daily Life With a Dental Implant

During the first 24 hours or so following your dental implant procedure, your dentist will probably recommend eating a soft food diet. Sometimes, you may have to continue with your soft food diet for up to 7 days after the operation, so keep lots of these foods on hand.

Good go-to staples include mashed potatoes, smoothies, applesauce, meal replacement drinks, smooth soups (not chunky), homemade broth and bouillon, juices, and protein drinks. Avoid citrus fruits, which can damage tooth enamel. 

Follow your dentist's instructions and you'll increase your chances for a smooth recovery. 

Dental Implants Work Similarly to Normal Teeth

Similar to most people, you may love feasting on foods like apples, steaks, spare ribs, nuts, tacos, corn on the cob, and other culinary delights, good news: with a dental implant, you'll be able to continue to enjoy these things – and speak and smile as you would with your natural teeth. That's because dental implants are designed to replace tooth roots and chew through these hard-to-chew foods, much like your natural teeth.  

Implants are placed below your gum line and fuse with your jawbone. So, once your tissues in the affected area have had time to heal, you won't need to worry about your dental implant falling out since the titanium is anchored to the jawbone. The tooth replacement (a crown, bridge, or denture) will be placed atop the implant to act as the biting surface of the tooth. 

Most People Won't Be Able to Tell You Have a Dental Implant

Are you considering replacing your missing teeth with a dental implant? If so, you may be worried if others will be able to notice your artificial tooth. We want you to know that you will be able to chew, talk, smile, and continue all of your normal activities as you usually do with your natural teeth, and a casual observer will have a hard time even seeing your dental implant.

The tooth replacement that will sit on top of the abutment will closely resemble your natural teeth and be matched to the shade of your existing teeth in order to create a uniform aesthetic. 

How You Can Take Care of Your Dental Implants

Of course, an excellent oral hygiene routine will still be necessary once your dental implant has been placed. Brushing your teeth at least two times a day and flossing at least once per day will keep plaque from building up and causing gingivitis. You should also continue to see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. 

Our team can offer advice on how to care for your dental implant and address any questions or concerns you may have.

Contact our Antigonish dentists today to schedule an appointment and ask any questions you might have about dental implants

New Patients Always Welcome

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

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Hours

  • Monday:08:00 am - 05:30 pm
  • Tuesday:08:00 am - 05:30 pm
  • Wednesday:08:00 am - 05:30 pm
  • Thursday:08:00 am - 05:30 pm
  • Friday:08:00 am - 05:00 pm
  • Saturday:Closed
  • Sunday:Closed

We can accommodate patients that want later appointments.
 

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