Once you have made up your mind to get dental implants, all that is left for you to do is openly discuss any questions with your dentist and get prepared for your recovery. Even though dental implants are an excellent option for smile replacement, they also do involve a longer recovery period while the soft tissue of your mouth heals around the new teeth. During this time, it will be critical that you eat and drink the proper foods and beverages. Your dentist will go over with you what you should eat and for how long, but here is a general grocery store checklist of things to have on hand after surgery. 

Beverages

For the most part, you will need to stick with water right after surgery. Your doctor will tell you that staying hydrated will be really important for your gums to heal properly. Drinking plenty of water will help keep your mouth, tongue, and gums clean and hydrated, which will also help prevent debris from what you eat causing discomfort. Soft drinks and other acidic drinks are not good for the incisions in your mouth, and hot coffee will be out of the question. 

Fruits and Veggies

Proper nutrition will support the body's natural ability to recuperate, so stocking up on fresh fruits and veggies is a good idea. Plus, all the good vitamins and minerals from these foods will support a healthy immune system to thwart infections that can prevent your implants from being successful. Go for softer fruits, such as mango, bananas, plums, and ripe berries. Stay away from fruits that are high in citric acids, such as oranges. Any fruits that are hard and crunchy like apples should be avoided for a while, but you can opt for natural fruit purees like applesauce. The same goes for fresh veggies; you will want softer varieties or those that can be steamed or boiled to a softer texture. 

Frozen and Canned Foods

Skipping meals because of your dental implants is no good, and you may not feel much like preparing meals right out of surgery, so frozen and canned foods will be good to have in your pantry. Canned soups and stews are good options for a quick meal that will not involve a lot of chewing. In frozen foods, look for healthier frozen dinners that don't contain a lot of excess sodium, which can burn the open places on your gums and hinder healing. Also, while preparing whatever hot meal in the days after your surgery, make sure the food is only warm, not hot.