An innovation of modern dentistry, All-Teeth-on-4 dental implants provide an alternative fixed option for those seeking a solution for tooth loss and replacement. This procedure involves placing a full set of prosthetic teeth that is supported by four strategically placed implants in the mouth, thereby restoring both functionality and aesthetics.
All-Teeth-on-4 dental implants are resilient and durable, but it is also crucial to take good care of them post-surgery to ensure their longevity. Food and drink, in particular, play an important role in proper implant care. Some types of consumables may have an adverse impact on the implant areas, which could in turn affect the healing process and long-term implant stability.
In this article, we will discuss a few types of food that are best to avoid after getting All-Teeth-on-4 dental implants. This may help you recover more quickly and ensure your implants remain in optimal condition for longer.
Hard Foods
Food with hard and crunchy textures, such as nuts, popcorn and hard candies, may exert excessive pressure on your implants when you bite. This can lead to micro-movements and compromise the integration of the implants with the jawbone, which could affect their stability.
To reduce this risk, it is best to opt for food with softer textures, especially during the initial stages of your post-surgery recovery period.
Sticky Foods
Sticky foods, such as caramels, toffees, and other soft candies, are not ideal for people with All-Teeth-on-4 dental implants because they tend to cling to the prosthetic teeth and the implant area.
Not only does this make the teeth and implants difficult to clean, but the residue may create an environment conducive to bacterial growth, which may pose an infection risk for the individual. While good habits such as regularly cleaning and flossing your teeth can help maintain good oral health, it is still advisable to steer clear of these foods to reduce bacterial accumulation.
Hot Foods and Beverages
After undergoing dental surgery, avoid hot food and beverages, which can be detrimental to the healing process.
As the surgery areas are especially sensitive post-operation, it is advisable to use lukewarm or room-temperature food and drink during the initial recovery period. This encourages a smoother healing process and minimises the risk of complications.
Spicy Foods
Spicy foods, such as hot peppers and curries, contain high acidity levels and may irritate the soft tissues surrounding your All-Teeth-on-4 dental implants, especially during the post-surgery period.
It is best to avoid these foods and ingredients at least during the initial stages of recovery. Once your dentist has determined that your new implants are settled and the soft tissues are healed, you can gradually introduce such foods into your diet.
Acidic Foods
High levels of acidity can also be found in common ingredients and seasonings such as oranges, tomatoes, and vinegar. As a result, these should be avoided, like spicy food.
Foods that are highly acidic may disrupt the near-neutral pH balance in your mouth and irritate soft tissues around the All-on-4 dental implant area, especially if surgery was recent. It is advisable to temporarily avoid or reduce these foods, then begin reintroducing them into your diet with the guidance of a dentist as the implants stabilise.
Carbonated Beverages
Carbonated beverages such as sodas and sparkling water should be avoided after any oral surgery, and All-Teeth-on-4 dental implant surgery is no different. Carbonated sodas can be sweet and acidic, which may increase the risk of bacterial infection.
Comprehensive All-Teeth-on-4 Dental Implants Care at Geelong West Dental
Caring for your new All-on-4 dental implants is vital to ensure functionality and longevity.
At Geelong West Dental, our highly skilled team will guide you throughout your implant treatment to ensure that the whole process is as smooth as possible from initial consultation to after-care procedures. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary All-Teeth-on-4 dental implant consultation in Geelong and learn more about them.