Summer is the season for sunshine, good vibes, and delicious food — especially in Tampa and New Port Richey!
If you’re adjusting to life with dental implants this summer, you might be wondering how to enjoy your favorite meals without compromising your recovery. Whether you’re planning a beach day, dining out with friends, or hosting a backyard barbecue, knowing what to eat (and what to avoid) can make all the difference.
We’re here to help! Here’s your ultimate guide to eating with dental implants, implant-friendly foods and local dining options to keep you smiling all summer long:
What is considered ‘implant-friendly’ food?
When you’re healing from dental implant surgery, the foods you choose can significantly impact your recovery. Hard, crunchy, or sticky foods can irritate the implant site and potentially interfere with healing, so it’s important to stick to soft, easy-to-chew options.
But eating with dental implants doesn’t have to be restrictive! There are plenty of flavorful, nutrient-dense foods that are gentle on your gums and perfect for summer. Think creamy pasta, flaky grilled fish, and refreshing fruit smoothies — all delicious and implant-friendly choices.
Use this as an opportunity to explore new flavors and enjoy satisfying meals without compromising your implant recovery!
Eating with Dental Implants in Summer 2025
Here are some of the best post-dental implant meal ideas and local restaurants to find them at:
1.Soft Taco Bowls
Skip the hard taco shells and opt for a soft taco bowl filled with tender, shredded chicken or ground turkey, rice, black beans, and creamy avocado.
Try the grilled chicken taco bowl at Miguel’s Mexican Café in Tampa for a flavorful yet easy-to-chew option.
2. Creamy Risotto with Soft Vegetables
Risotto is a perfect choice for implant patients — it’s soft, comforting, and can be made with nutrient-dense ingredients like mushrooms, spinach, and butternut squash.
Stop by Carrabba’s Italian Grill for a creamy risotto that’s both gentle and filling.
3. Baked Salmon with Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Soft, flaky fish like salmon is rich in omega-3s and easy to eat, while mashed sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients and require minimal chewing.
Order a grilled salmon bowl at Agave Social in Tampa for a melt-in-your-mouth meal.
4. Steamed Vegetable Medley
Steamed veggies like zucchini, carrots, and broccoli are packed with vitamins and minerals and are soft enough to enjoy while your implant site heals.
Try out Istanbul Mediterranean Grill & Market for a Mediterranean vegetable platter with soft, seasoned veggies and a side of creamy hummus.
5. Smoothie Bowl with Greek Yogurt
Blend soft fruits like bananas, mango, and peaches with Greek yogurt for a creamy, nutrient-dense treat that’s gentle on sensitive gums.
Check out Tropical Smoothie Café for a refreshing smoothie bowl that’s packed with vitamins.
6. Soft Scrambled Eggs with Avocado
Eggs are a powerhouse of protein and are easy to eat post-implant surgery. Add a side of mashed avocado for a nutrient boost.
Grab a soft scrambled egg plate at Keke’s Breakfast Café for a light yet satisfying meal.
What can I eat with dental implants?
One of the main benefits of dental implants is that they function much like natural teeth, allowing you to enjoy a wide range of foods once you’re fully healed. However, right after surgery, you’ll need to stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods to protect the implant site and promote healing.
Here’s what you need to know about eating with dental implants:
Right After Surgery
For the first 24-48 hours, focus on liquids and very soft foods that don’t require much chewing. This helps reduce irritation and minimizes the risk of disrupting the implant site.
Some ideal foods include:
- Smoothies with soft fruits and Greek yogurt
- Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Broths and creamy soups (avoid hot temperatures)
- Applesauce or other pureed fruits
- Protein shakes
During the Healing Process
As you continue to heal, you can gradually introduce slightly more textured foods. Avoid anything hard, crunchy, or sticky to prevent damaging the implant.
Consider these options:
- Scrambled eggs or soft omelets
- Flaky fish like salmon or cod
- Soft pasta with mild sauce
- Cottage cheese or soft tofu
- Soft-cooked vegetables like zucchini or squash
After Full Healing
Once your implant is fully integrated and your PHC periodontist gives the green light, you can return to a more regular diet. However, it’s still best to avoid overly hard or sticky foods that could stress the implant.
Some great options include:
- Lean meats that are tender and easy to chew
- Rice, quinoa, or couscous
- Soft bread without seeds or crusty edges
- Fresh fruits (cut into small, manageable pieces)
- Steamed vegetables
The key to eating with dental implants is to take it slow and listen to your body. If you’re unsure about a specific food, please reach out to us! We’re more than happy to answer all of your questions, and we’re here to help you adjust to life with dental implants.
Celebrate summer & eat freely again with Periodontal Health Center!
If you’re still considering dental implants, we’re here to help you make the best choice for your smile and quality of life. Dental implants can allow you to smile confidently again, eat freely, and restore the function and appearance of natural teeth.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions. Ready to find out if dental implants are the best option to restore your smile? Schedule your appointment with our experienced periodontists in Tampa and New Port Richey today!
