Preparing for Dental Implant Surgery

If you are missing a tooth or two, your dentist may recommend dental implant surgery to make chewing easier, support your remaining teeth and restore your stunning smile. Dental implant procedure involves the placement of a titanium post that can hold an artificial tooth. Tooth surgery is a good alternative for those who wish to avoid full or partial dentures. Although the thought of surgery can intimidate even the bravest soul, preparing for your dental implants can help eliminate some of your anxiety.  Fear not, dental implants have a success rate of over 96% and are generally considered minor surgery.  Postoperative pain has been described as 3 out of 10!

If you feel you need a dental implant and would like more information, check out this page about dental implant procedures and reasons for needing dental implants.

Exam and Treatment Plan
Setting up an exam with your dentist is the first step in preparing for implant surgery. The dentist will probably take X-rays in order to get a better understanding of your teeth and your jaw. During this exam, your dentist can discuss your treatment options with you regarding your dental implant surgery. This is also a good opportunity to learn more about the actual implant procedure and the specific steps you must take to prepare for the surgery.

Planning Transportation
Making a plan for transportation to the dentist’s office for the surgery and back home. If your dentist gives you a sedative for your surgery, you won’t be able to drive yourself home. Asking a friend or relative to give you a lift or scheduling a taxi ahead of time is a good idea.

Clear Out Your Calendar
Consider planning the rest of your day so that you have a free schedule in case you feel worn out by the procedure. Taking a day to rest will improve the chances that you can resume your normal activities more quickly. During your rest day, you should avoid strenuous activities, including exercise. If you have children, ask for help from a friend or family member so that you can get a break. If possible, avoid going back to work after your procedure so that you have more time to focus on your recovery.  Although implant surgery is a minor in-office procedure with minimal discomfort, your body still needs rest.

Meal Planning
If your dentist intends to use a general anesthetic for your dental implant surgery, they will likely advise you to not eat anything after midnight the night before the appointment. However, you should plan to have some foods ready to eat after your surgery. Soft foods are your best bet, including foods such as soup, yogurt, oatmeal and applesauce. Your dentist may advise you to stick with foods that can be eaten at room temperature. Stocking your fridge and pantry with potential foods ahead of time will save you from an emergency trip to the grocery store while you’re still coming out of the effects of the anesthetic.

Prepare Your Recovery Room
After coming home from dental implant surgery, you may feel inclined to do little more than rest on your bed and watch television. Getting your recovery room ready to go will eliminate the need to do any work after you arrive home. Spare pillows and warm blankets will help you feel comfortable and relaxed as you recover from your implant surgery.

If you need more assistance preparing for your upcoming dental implant procedure, don’t hesitate to call us. Wekiva Dental has been helping patients’ smiles shine for over thirty years.