Eating with missing teeth can be quite a challenge. From the front teeth, helping tear down, to the molars that grind down your bites, each tooth plays a crucial role in your smile, which is why most dentists recommend replacing them with dental implants in Pekin immediately after loss.
Once healed, implants are a stable, durable, and natural-looking restoration. To ensure you achieve that, there are some key foods you must eat while you recover.

Why Should I Control What I Eat After Implant Surgery?
Once the implants have completely fused with the bone, you can resume your regular eating habits.
However, you won't be able to do so immediately following surgery. After the implant is inserted, as with any procedure, you must expect a recovery period during which you may feel a little discomfort and sensitivity. Luckily, being careful with your diet can help manage these.
What Can I Eat Within the Initial 24-48 Hours?
The first 24 to 48 hours after implant surgery are key. During this time, you must avoid hot foods and drinks and be careful not to chew on the implant area.
Aside from avoiding harsh foods, getting enough vitamins and minerals is essential for healing. Some good examples of healthy meals include:
- Blended soups and broths high in vitamins to keep you hydrated and nourished.
- Bananas, boiled potatoes, and pumpkins, along with avocados, applesauce, and hummus, all contain multiple essential vitamins.
- Salmon, scrambled eggs, and protein shakes because protein can hasten the healing process.
- Smoothies that don't contain dairy or banana ice cream can help reduce swelling, numb your mouth, and lift your spirits!
Foods to Avoid After Getting Implants
Some foods to avoid while you recover include:
- Foods that are hot and spicy because they may irritate the areas where you had surgery. You should also avoid using a straw, as the suction motion can disrupt the healing area.
- Hard fruits and vegetables. Raw apples and carrots should be avoided despite their nutritional value because they are difficult to chew. Stick to soft substitutes like peas and bananas!
- Nuts, seeds, popcorn, and other crunchy snacks.
- Chewy or sticky candies, particularly those containing taffy or caramel, should be avoided, as they tend to stick to teeth and could loosen a temporary restoration.
- Alcohol, since it can cause swelling and slow down the healing process. It might even interact dangerously with the painkillers you're taking after surgery.

Recover from Dental Implants in Pekin and Enjoy a Full Smile for Years to Come!
Dental implants are among the most reliable and durable dental restorations—in fact, once healed, implants report an average success rate of 95 to 98% over 5 to 10 years. Often, when an implant needs to be replaced, the crown causes trouble, not the implant itself.
So, while the idea of implant surgery may sound scary, the long-term benefits make it worth it. Contact us today for more detailed instructions on how to recover from implant surgery.
