Just got a dental bridge and wondering when you can eat? It’s a common question — and the good news is, you’ll be back to enjoying your favourite meals in no time with just a few precautions.
Here’s what Canadian patients should know about eating after a dental bridge procedure.
🥝 Immediately After Placement
If your bridge was placed using local anesthesia, wait until the numbness fully wears off before eating. This helps prevent accidental bites to your tongue or cheek.
If you received a temporary bridge, avoid hard or sticky foods to prevent dislodging it.
✅ Best Foods to Eat at First
Stick to soft, non-sticky foods for the first few days:
- Mashed potatoes
- Eggs
- Yogurt
- Pasta
- Soft-cooked vegetables
Chew slowly and use both sides of your mouth to distribute pressure evenly.
🚨 Foods to Avoid Initially
Avoid these foods during the initial healing phase:
- Crunchy snacks (chips, nuts)
- Sticky candy or gum
- Very hard fruits or veggies (like raw carrots or apples)
- Tough meats
These can put stress on the new bridge while it’s settling in.
🩺 After Full Adjustment
Once your mouth has adjusted (usually within a week or two), you can eat most foods as normal. Permanent bridges are designed to restore strong chewing function.
Continue to:
- Brush and floss around the bridge daily
- Use a floss threader or water flosser for underneath
- Visit your dentist regularly to ensure it stays secure
Got a New Bridge and Have Questions?
Our Canadian dental team is here to guide you through recovery and help you protect your investment in a strong, functional smile.