The sun is shining, the days are longer, and the air is sweeter – summertime has officially arrived! This season is synonymous with backyard BBQs and cookouts. Yet, it can be challenging or even downright impossible to eat certain foods if you have missing teeth. Luckily, there’s a solution – dental implants! Read on to learn more about them and how they can help you enjoy your favorite summer treats once again.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a popular method of tooth replacement that can restore the appearance and functionality of your natural smile. It’s a small titanium post that is surgically inserted into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Unlike other replacement methods, implants are fuse directly with the existing bone and tissue, providing strong, durable results unlike anything else. They’re considered the gold standard of tooth replacement! Once you complete the process, you can enjoy a smile that looks, feels, and acts just like the one you had before.
Summer Foods You Can Enjoy with Dental Implants
With dental implants, you don’t have to worry about them slipping or sliding while eating! They restore up to 75% of your original chewing capacity, meaning you can eat almost anything once fully healed.
By making a few adjustments, you can safely and comfortably indulge in some of your favorite summer foods, such as:
- Corn on the Cob – This seasonal staple can be found at any cookout! Before you dig in, make sure you remove the cob and only eat the small kernels with a fork or spoon. It helps prevent kernels from getting stuck in between your teeth and implants.
- Fresh Fruits – Stay away from the usual sweets like cookies, cake, pie, and cobbler. Instead, opt for fresh fruits like watermelon, strawberries, blueberries, and melon. They contain natural sugars and are a healthy way to satisfy your sweet tooth!
- Vegetables – Who doesn’t love a good zucchini fresh off the grill? If you want a healthy, delicious treat, throw some squash, bell peppers, or other fresh veggies on the grill. They’ll soften and be easier for you to consume!
Tips for Eating with Dental Implants
Although implants restore most of your chewing capacity, you’ll still want to err on the side of caution to avoid damaging your new smile. Here are a few tips to keep in mind while eating:
- Avoid hard foods as they can break your restorations (i.e., nuts, ice, popcorn kernels)
- Watch your sugar intake
- Maintain good oral hygiene (brush twice a day and floss once a day)
- Regularly visit your dentist for checkups
Are you ready to start your journey with dental implants? Contact your dentist for a consultation. Soon enough, you can indulge in all your favorite summer foods with a full smile!
About the Author
Dr. Zachary Brice cares deeply about establishing meaningful relationships with his patients that last a lifetime. He and the team at Brice Dental go above and beyond to provide truly comprehensive, compassionate, and top-tier dental services beyond what’s anywhere else. Dr. Brice takes numerous hours of continuing education every year to expand his skills in all facets of dentistry, including dental implants. If you have missing teeth, visit our website or call (210) 903-5565 to schedule a dental implant consultation with Dr. Brice.