Now that summer is here, you’re bound to want to enjoy a great cookout with family and friends. However, now that you have dental implants, you might wonder if you’ll still be able to munch on any of your favorite meals of the season. Fortunately, these titanium posts are fully supported by your jawbone, meaning you don’t have to worry about your new pearly whites moving out of place. Here are a few kinds of foods you can be free to munch on as well as tips to consider when protecting your smile.
Summer Foods to Enjoy with Dental Implants
Unlike any other type of prosthetic or restoration, dental implants are designed to serve as your new tooth roots. Once they’ve fused properly with your jawbone, you should be able to regain about 70% of your natural chewing ability. This can allow you to enjoy more food options this summer and beyond, including:
Steak
With a stronger bite, you’ll be able to tear into steak much more easily. Of course, chewing excessively can lead to wear and tear on your restorations. To enjoy a good steak, make sure to tenderize it before cooking it. Cutting it into smaller pieces can also help make it easier to eat.
Ribs
While a tasty rack of ribs would be amazing to munch on right off the grill, you’ll want to avoid biting into the bone. Doing so can accidentally damage both your dental implants and natural teeth. Be sure to cut the meat off first before chewing it.
Corn on the Cob
This is perhaps one of the staple foods during summertime. While you can easily bite the corn on the cob with your dental implants, it can be difficult to dislodge trapped kernels from between your teeth. To have an easier time with your meal, try cutting the corn off first so that you can avoid any issues with food stuck in your smile.
Tips for Eating with Your Dental Implants
Regardless if you’re staying home or traveling for the summer, you’ll need to implement a good daily routine for maintaining your new pearly whites. To keep your teeth clean and healthy during the next couple of months and beyond, make sure to:
- Brush, floss, and rinse with mouthwash at least twice every day
- Avoid foods that are too hard and can damage your restoration(s) (corn kernels, nuts, etc.)
- Minimize how often you eat sugary, acidic, and processed foods that can increase the risk of gum disease
- Visit your dentist twice a year for checkups and cleanings
By restoring your bite with dental implants, you’ll be sure to enjoy a wide range of meal options when it’s time for summer cookouts.
About the Author
Dr. Eric Buck is passionate about providing the essential care patients deserve to achieve a smile they can enjoy. He offers a wide range of comprehensive solutions for maintaining and rebuilding teeth, including dental implants designed to improve your bite and expand your dietary choices. If you want to know more about how to preserve your new smile while enjoying summertime meals, don’t hesitate to visit our website or give us a call at 614-792-1800.