Getting dental implants is a great step toward restoring your smile and confidence. While many patients wonder if dental implants hurt, the procedure itself is just the first part of the journey—proper aftercare is also important for a successful outcome. With modern restorative dental implants, what you eat and drink in the days following your surgery can make a big difference in your healing.
You may get a list of foods to avoid, and dairy is often at the top. Dentists often recommend avoiding dairy products after implant surgery, because dairy can introduce bacteria and potentially increase inflammation, which may interfere with the healing process.
Your First Few Days After Dental Implant Surgery
After your dental implant procedure, your mouth needs time to heal properly. It’s normal to feel some discomfort or see a bit of swelling. What you eat during this initial recovery period plays a big part in how well you heal.
How Dairy Products Affect Your Recovery
You may wonder why milk, cheese, or yogurt are on the “no” list right after surgery. The reason is that dairy products can sometimes cause inflammation in the body. They can also leave a film in your mouth that may encourage bacteria to grow near your surgical site, potentially leading to issues like implant failure if not managed properly.
How Long to Avoid Dairy After a Dental Implant
Most people are advised to avoid dairy for up to a week after their procedure. This timeline can change based on your personal healing process. Your dental team will give you advice for your situation and help you prevent complications like gum disease from developing around the site.
What to Eat & Drink Instead
Focusing on the right foods can make your recovery more comfortable. A soft-food diet helps protect your new implant and also gives your jaw a chance to rest.
Soft Foods Are Your Friend
Sticking to a soft-food diet, similar to the one recommended after a tooth extraction, helps protect the implant site. These foods require little to no chewing, which gives your mouth a chance to rest and recover. Good options include:
- Lukewarm soups & broths
- Applesauce
- Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Smoothies (made without dairy)
- Oatmeal
What About Ice Cream & Yogurt?
Ice cream and yogurt are soft, but they’re still dairy products. It’s best to skip them for the first few days. If you’re looking for a cold treat to help with swelling, a dairy-free sorbet is a better choice for oral wellness.
Other Foods & Habits to Skip for a Smooth Recovery
Beyond dairy, there are a few other things to avoid while your mouth heals.
Hard, Crunchy, & Sticky Foods
For the first week or two, stay away from foods that can disturb your new implant. This includes foods like:
- Nuts & seeds
- Popcorn & chips
- Hard candies & sticky caramels
- Tough meats
When Can You Drink Coffee?
Hot drinks like coffee and tea can increase blood flow to the surgical area, which may cause bleeding. Caffeine can also affect healing. It’s often recommended that you wait at least two to three days before you slowly reintroduce warm—not hot—coffee into your routine.
Avoid Straws & Smoking
The suction created when you use a straw can dislodge the blood clot that forms over your implant site. This condition, called dry socket, is painful and slows down healing. Smoking should also be avoided, as it can harm the healing process and increase the risk of complications. The Canadian Dental Association provides guidance on how to handle various post-operative dental emergencies should they arise.
General Aftercare Tips for Your New Implant
Your daily habits in the week after your procedure are important. Good aftercare goes beyond your diet. A clean mouth and adequate rest create an ideal environment for healing, which is crucial for both your implant’s success and your overall oral health.
Keep Your Mouth Clean
Good oral hygiene is important after surgery. You’ll need to be gentle around the implant area. A simple rinse with warm salt water two to three times a day can help keep the area clean and reduce bacteria.
Rest & Recover
Your body heals best when you’re resting. Plan to take it easy for at least the first 24 to 48 hours after your procedure. Avoid heavy lifting or intense exercise for a few days, as it can increase swelling and bleeding.
Your Dental Implant & Long-Term Success
Following aftercare instructions helps your implant heal properly. Our team at Dentistry on Danforth is here to support you through every stage of your recovery.
The dentists on Danforth are passionate about helping you maintain your oral health. Regular dental exams and cleanings will help you maintain your new smile and overall well-being for years to come. We take the time to understand your needs and help you feel comfortable.