If this is your first summer with dental implants, you don’t have to leave your favorite foods off your plate anymore. Dental implants have the support of your jawbone, restoring 70% of your natural biting force. You can eat many seasonal favorites, but there are a few things you should know to protect your investment. Here are 4 summer foods you should limit to safeguard your new smile.
1. Hot Dogs
If you enjoy throwing hot dogs on the barbecue, your implant dentist will recommend limiting how often you have them. Hot dogs and buns can feed bacteria that can increase your risk of gum inflammation. It can lead to an infection called peri-implantitis, which is a common cause of dental implant failure. You can’t resist a juicy hot dog, brush your teeth well after you finish.
2. Steak
You don’t have to worry about your teeth slipping when enjoying a steak with dental implants. However, steak requires a lot of chewing, which puts a lot of wear and tear on your dental implants. It’s best to tenderize your meat before you cook it. Cut it into small pieces to make it easier to chew.
3. Corn on the Cob
Buttery corn on the cob is a sweet treat. Although it’s entirely possible to eat corn on the cob with dental implants, your dentist will advise against it. It can get caught in your teeth, increasing your risk of infections. It can also damage your dental implants over time. It’s best to cut your corn off the cob before eating it.
4. Sugary Drinks
Soda, sports drinks, and juice are refreshing on a hot day. However many contain a lot of sugar, which increases bacteria growth in your mouth. Although dental implants can’t get cavities, it can increase your risk of infections. It’s best to drink water whenever possible to keep your mouth clean and your body hydrated. If you have something sweet, drink it all at once instead of sipping it throughout the day. Rinse your mouth with water afterward if you can’t get to your toothbrush.
Protect Your Dental Implants
Besides watching what you eat, commit to your oral hygiene to keep your mouth healthy. Brush your teeth at least twice daily or after every meal if you’re doing more snacking. Don’t forget to floss every day.
Take a break from your summer festivities to visit your dentist for a cleaning and checkup. They’ll provide the preventive care you need to ensure your dental implants last for a lifetime.
About Dr. Louis Olberding
Dr. Olberding earned his dental degree from the University of Nebraska Medical College of Dentistry and has regularly pursued continuing education in many specialties. He is affiliated with several professional organizations, including the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and the International College of Oral Implantologists. Request an appointment online or call (402) 817-0098.