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Which Foods Can I Eat After Implant Surgery?

Middle-aged man smiles with dental implants while wearing a gray blue shirt and folding his arms

These days, dental implants are an incredibly popular solution to missing teeth. They are a favored tooth replacement option for several reasons. In fact, an implant mimics the look and feel of a natural tooth so well, you may even forget it’s not real! In this post, we’ll talk a little about the dental implant process, and how to recover quickly after-the-fact.

Why Get Dental Implants?

Dental implants may be used to address the absence of a tooth due to decay, accident, or other circumstances. Implants certainly aren’t the only way to replace a tooth, but many patients find them to be the most comfortable and permanent. A dental implant offers a sturdy, realistic, and durable fake tooth that requires no additional maintenance beyond standard daily oral hygiene and routine dental visits.

Getting Dental Implants

Once you and your dentist have decided that implants are the best option for you, here’s what to expect from the procedure. An implant is often compared to a screw. It’s made of safe and strong titanium. After being surgically inserted into your jawbone, it takes several months for the implant to fuse to the bone and for the area to heal. Once the healing and osseointegration period is complete, your custom-made restoration will be attached.

What Can I Eat Afterward?

The beauty of dental implants is that they function like normal teeth. That means your speaking and eating won’t be impacted–you can return to eating the foods you love. However, you won’t be able to do so right after getting your new implant. As with any procedure, expect a recovery period. After the implant is inserted into the jaw, that area will need to heal. While healing, you can expect some pain and sensitivity. You’ve still got to eat, though! Here are some pointers:

  • Stick with liquids and soft foods that can be easily cut with the side of a fork, such as smoothies, low-sugar yogurt, eggs, mashed fruits and vegetables, and soups
  • Avoid very hot foods and beverages
  • Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol
  • As always, stay hydrated with plenty of water!

Dental Implants at CarolinasDentist

If you haven’t already, it’s time to find out if you are a good candidate for implants! Contact us to arrange a consultation.

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

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