Dental implant surgery is a procedure in which a dental implant is surgically placed in the jawbone, providing a long-lasting solution to missing teeth. If you’re considering dental implant surgery, preparing yourself mentally and physically for the procedure is important. Preparing for implant surgery can help you achieve better results and ensure a smooth, stress-free process.
At Local Start Dental, we understand that dental implant surgery can be an overwhelming experience. That’s why we’re here to provide you with all the information and support you need to properly prepare yourself for the procedure. Our team of experienced prosthodontists and dental implant specialists is dedicated to offering you top-notch care and treatment from beginning to end. Call 919.569.5533 to learn more about dental implants in Durham, NC and explore options for enhancing your smile.
How to Prepare for Dental Implant Surgery
Living with a missing tooth or teeth, or struggling with poorly fitted dentures, can significantly impact your everyday life. You may struggle to eat, speak, or feel confident in your smile, negatively affecting your overall well-being. Dental implants are a popular way to replace missing teeth permanently, and implant surgery can be life-changing for many patients. Here’s how to prepare for dental implant surgery.
Understand the Procedure
Dental implant surgery is a procedure that involves inserting a metal post into your jawbone to replace a missing tooth root, which is then covered by a crown or other dental prosthetic. Before you undergo the surgery, it’s crucial to understand the risks and benefits and what to expect during and after the procedure. Your dentist or oral surgeon can answer any questions beforehand and provide detailed instructions regarding pre and post-operative care.
Get a Comprehensive Dental Exam
Before dental implant surgery, your prosthodontist will perform a comprehensive dental exam to ensure you’re an excellent candidate. The exam may include diagnostic imaging, CT scans, and medical history reviews. They will also examine your teeth and mouth. It’s essential to inform your provider if you are taking any medications or have any underlying medical conditions, as this can affect the outcome of the surgery.
Prepare for Recovery
Dental implant surgery is typically an outpatient procedure, which means you can go home the same day. However, you’ll still need time to rest and recover. It’s essential to plan and arrange for someone to take you home from the procedure and provide assistance if needed. You may need to stick to a soft food diet for a few days, avoid hot or cold drinks, and avoid strenuous activities. Your prosthodontist will provide you with a detailed list of post-operative care instructions to follow.
Make Necessary Lifestyle Changes
Smoking and alcohol consumption can affect how your body heals after surgery, and it’s recommended to quit smoking at least two weeks before the procedure. Additionally, you may need to adjust any current medications or supplements, as certain medications can interfere with blood clotting or affect anesthesia. Your dentist or oral surgeon can provide specific instructions on what medications and supplements you should avoid before your procedure.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is crucial before, during, and after dental implant surgery. Before your procedure, you must practice good oral hygiene habits, including regular brushing and flossing, as well as scheduling a dental cleaning or prophylaxis. This can help prevent potential infections or issues that could complicate the implant surgery. After your procedure, it’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene habits, including gentle brushing, using mouthwash, and avoiding touching the implant area. Your oral surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your implants.
Dental implant surgery is life-changing for many patients struggling with tooth loss or poorly fitted dentures. By following these steps to prepare for your procedure, you can ensure that you enter surgery feeling informed and confident.
Learn More About Preparing for Dental Implant Surgery at Local Start Dental
At Local Start Dental, we specialize in dental implants and are passionate about helping our clients achieve beautiful, healthy smiles. Our specialists provide top-quality care and treatment, from the initial consultation to post-op care. We use the latest dental technology and equipment to ensure precise and efficient procedures, resulting in a successful outcome.
Our practice focuses on personalized dental treatments, ensuring you get the best care possible. You can trust us to provide comprehensive preparation for dental implant surgery and offer consistent support throughout the process. We’re always available to answer any questions and offer guidance to help you achieve optimal results. Call 919.569.5533 or visit us online to discover how we can help you achieve a beautiful and healthy smile.