When teeth are missing, it’s often possible to replace them with dental implants so that you can once again enjoy a complete smile that looks and feels natural. Are you thinking about filling the gaps in your grin with dental implants? If so, you should make sure that you’re properly prepared for the process of having them surgically inserted into your jaw. Below are 4 useful tips that can help you get ready for dental implant placement.
1. Ask Any Questions That Are on Your Mind Ahead of Time
You should never feel like you aren’t fully informed about any treatments being performed on your own smile. If you have a question about dental implant surgery – whether it’s regarding the procedure itself or what will happen afterward – you can ask your dentist during your initial consultation. It’s very important to have lingering concerns cleared up before you commit to anything.
2. Start Planning Ahead for After the Surgery
It will take some time for your mouth to heal after dental implant surgery. To make sure everything goes smoothly, you should start getting ready for the recovery process ahead of time. For example, you can stock up on soft or liquid foods that you will be able to eat while your mouth is still sore, such as soups and pasta. On top of that, you should make sure that you have over-the-counter pain medication and ice packs for managing your post-surgical discomfort.
3. If You Will Be Sedated, Make Transportation Arrangements
Some patients will have oral conscious sedation administered in order to stay calm and comfortable during dental implant surgery. However, it will take a while for the effects of the sedative to fully wear off; until they do, you should avoid driving. Instead, make arrangements for a friend or family member to take you home after your procedure.
4. Take Note of Any Pre-Op Instructions and Follow Them Carefully
Depending on the specifics of your procedure, your dentist may give you some pre-op instructions. For example, you may be prescribed antibiotics in order to lower the risk of an oral infection occurring; it is vital to closely follow the directions for taking any such medication. Adhering to your pre-op instructions will go a long way toward making sure that your mouth stays safe during and after the dental implant process.
Are you wondering whether there’s anything else you can do to get ready for dental implants? Don’t hesitate to ask your dentist during your initial dental implant consultation to see what they suggest.
About the Author
Dr. Ben Omrani loves being a dentist because it gives him a chance to work with his hands and put his creative and artistic skills to good use. His dental practice, Platinum Dental Group of San Juan Capistrano, provides start-to-finish dental implant treatments for patients who are missing one or more teeth. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Omrani, visit his website or call (949) 661-2052.