The Implant-Friendly Diet for Lakewood Residents
If you’ve invested in dental implants or are considering them, maintaining oral health goes beyond brushing and flossing. Supporting your smile, one bite at a time, means paying attention to eating after dental implants, including choosing the right soft foods and avoiding sticky foods for an implant-friendly diet for Lakewood residents. The foods you choose and their sources play a significant role in the long-term success of your dental implants.
For the residents of Lakewood, Washington, the good news is you don’t have to look far for delicious, implant-friendly options. Here’s how to enjoy a tasty, nutrient-rich diet that supports your implants and makes the most of the delicious local restaurants and vibrant markets in Lakewood.
Why Diet Matters for Dental Implants
Dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution for missing teeth. But like natural teeth, they depend on the health of the surrounding bone and gum tissue. A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein helps:
- Promote bone integration with the implant
- Reduce inflammation in the gums
- Prevent plaque buildup
- Support healing after implant surgery
If you’re considering Lakewood dental implants or have recently had them placed, knowing what to avoid eating with new dental implants is just as important as choosing the right foods. The right diet can speed up recovery and protect your investment for years!
Implant-Friendly Foods to Prioritize
If you’re looking for what to eat after dental implant surgery in Lakewood, or you’re in the healing phase and want to maintain implant health, focus on what to eat during the recovery period:
- Soft proteins like eggs, fish, tofu, and well-cooked chicken
- Leafy greens such as spinach or kale for calcium and Vitamin K
- Whole grains for B vitamins and fiber
- Low-acid, soft fruits only such as bananas, melons, and avocados
- Dairy products like yogurt, kefir, and ice cream for probiotics and soothing comfort
- Healthy fats like olive oil and omega-3-rich salmon
Choose easy-to-chew options and avoid hard, crunchy foods like nuts or raw carrots during healing, as these can stress or dislodge implants.
Local Lakewood Spots That Make Eating Healthy Easy
208 Garfield
This cozy café near the Lakewood Town Center offers healthy lunch bowls with soft proteins like grilled salmon or chicken over rice and veggies, perfect for the healing process after dental implants. Their dishes focus on soft texture to ensure comfort during recovery.
Carrs Restaurant & Bar
A local favorite, Carr’s serves hearty, home-cooked meals. To complement your soft protein choice, ask for steamed veggies or mashed sweet potatoes as sides—both gentle on implants and free from spicy foods that might irritate sensitive tissue during healing.
Tacoma Boys Market (Lakewood location)
If you prefer preparing meals at home, Tacoma Boys is a great stop for fresh produce, organic dairy, and grass-fed meats. Their vast selection of seasonal fruits and vegetables makes it easy to prep meals with soft texture, avoiding spicy foods that could slow your healing process and ensuring implant-friendly nutrition.
H&L Produce
This hidden gem is more than a produce stand. With locally sourced fruits, greens, and homemade sauces, it’s ideal for Lakewood residents who want to build meals from scratch with implant-safe ingredients that promote healing and have a soft texture.
Tips for Eating Out with Implants
- Ask for modifications—swap out crusty bread for soft rolls or rice to avoid hard textures after the dental implant procedure.
- Go slow—take smaller bites and chew on the opposite side during the post-surgery recovery period.
- Stay hydrated—dry mouth can affect gum health and healing after dental implants.
- Limit sugary drinks—opt for water or herbal tea instead of soda or juice, which are best to avoid after dental implants.
Protect Your Implants with a Custom Nutrition Plan
Every smile is unique, and so is every diet. To ensure your diet supports the success of your dental implants, we recommend scheduling a consultation with our dental team.
We work closely with our patients in Lakewood, Washington, to offer guidance on oral hygiene, nutrition, proper care, and long-term implant maintenance. The implant process extends beyond surgery and marks the beginning of ongoing care. Our team is here to guide you in making informed decisions that protect your investment and support long-term oral health.