The Impact of Nutrition on Dental Implant Healing and Longevity

Dental implants are indeed the best possible way to restore a smile. However, the recovery and long-term results depend on aspects beyond just the surgery. Everything you eat before, during, and after the implant procedure greatly enhances the healing ability of your body and the longevity of the implant. In fact, proper nutrition has the potential to promote healing, reduce complicating factors, and ensure that the implant feels and functions like a natural tooth for years after placement. In this blog, you will learn more about the impact of nutrition on dental implants.

Why Nutrition Matters After Dental Implant Surgery?

The instant a dental implant in Spokane is performed, the healing process is initiated. This involves managing inflammation, developing new tissue, and anchoring the implant to your jawbone through a process known as osseointegration. 

For all of these to be properly carried out, the body should receive sufficient energy from nutrition.

A poor diet can negatively impact healing, making one more susceptible to infection and compromising the stability of the implant. Contrarily, taking good care of your body will:

• Provide Food for Wound Healing
• Increase Immunity
• Encourage Bone Health
• Reduce Inflammation

Essential Nutrients That Support Healing & Implant Success

Some nutrients are extremely important in determining whether the repair of your implant goes well or poorly. Here are the top ones:

• Protein

For repairing tissues and building new cells.

Sources: Eggs, Greek yogurt, tofu, chicken, lentils.

• Calcium

Vital for rebuilding and strengthening the jawbone around the implant.

Sources: Dairy products, fortified plant milks, leafy greens, and almonds.

• Vitamin D

Aids the body in absorbing calcium and supports immune health.

Sources: Fatty fish, fortified cereals, sunshine.

• Vitamin C

Promotes gum tissue repair and collagen production.

Sources: broccoli, oranges, strawberries, bell peppers.

• Zinc

A wound-healing powerhouse that also supports immunity.

Sources: Pumpkin seeds, beef, chickpeas, whole grains.

• Omega-3s

Help control inflammation and assist in making the mouth healthy.

Sources: Salmon, chia seeds, flaxseed oil, walnuts.

Include and Exclude From Food

Eating right will improve your comfort and healing time. Here is what to eat and what not to eat.

Perfect Foods during Recoveries:

• Smoothies of leafy greens, berries, and protein powders
• Mashed sweet potato or avocado
• Scrambled eggs or soft tofu
• Broths and blended soups
• Cottage cheese or Greek yogurt

Foods you need to stay away from: 

• Hard nuts, chips, or crusty bread
• Sticky candies or chewing gum
• Sugary snacks and drinks
• Alcohol and smoking

Above all, remember to drink plenty of water. Hydration supports every part of the healing process. 

Long-Term Nutrition Tips for the Longevity of Implants 

Here’s how to support your implant over time: 

• Stick to a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet rich in whole foods 
• Limit sugar to prevent gum disease and damage to neighboring teeth 
• Add crunchy fruits and veggies: they help clean and stimulate the gums 
• Maintain regular dental visits and cleanings. 

Getting a dental implant is a significant step towards restoring one’s smile, but it extends beyond what the dentist offers in their office. Diet also greatly influences one’s level of healing and the retention of the implant. The right nutrients combined with avoiding the wrong foods with long-term oral health habits ensure the implant has the highest chance of withstanding a lifetime. 

Want to fine-tune your diet before or after implant surgery? Speak to our dentist or nutritionist; the smallest step towards that ideal can make the biggest difference.