Are you thinking of getting dental implants? Then you’ll need to prepare for dental implant surgery. In some cases, you may even require multiple procedures across several months.
When you correctly prepare to receive dental implants, you can help your mouth health following surgery. Correct preparation also increases the likelihood that your dental implant treatment will be successful, so you can show off a wonderful smile for years to come.
If you’re wondering how to prepare for dental implants, keep reading.
Food and Drink
If you’re receiving local anesthesia, you can enjoy a light meal a couple of hours before surgery. But, if the treatment is performed under IV sedation, you shouldn’t eat any food after midnight the night before surgery. This is to ensure that your stomach is empty.
Medication
Your dentist may prescribe you some antibiotics to take for a couple of days before your dental implant procedure to prevent early implant complications. If you suffer from any chronic conditions or other medical concerns, your dentist is more likely to prescribe antibiotics.
Your dentist may also ask you to rinse with a special anti-bacterial mouthwash like chlorhexidine. This helps to keep germs away from the surgery area.
Pre-Op Lifestyle Changes
Smoking may reduce the success of dental implants because it can slow the healing process. If you’re a smoker, speak with your dentist about whether you should have dental implants fitted. Or consider quitting smoking.
Remember that resting is essential for successful healing. Before your dental implant surgery, plan to take it easy. You could lighten your schedule for one week or even ask for some help around the house.
You could even take some time off work and any social plans you may have. It’s a good idea to stop exercising too.
If you require IV sedation, organize for transportation home as you cannot drive.
Prepare Your Jaw
If your jawbone is thin or soft or you’ve had a tooth missing for a while, your jawbone may not be able to support an implant properly. As a result, a bone graft may be necessary.
The bone grafting material may be synthetic, or it may come from another part of your body. It helps to rebuild the affected part of your jawbone for increased strength, which is necessary because of the force of chewing.
A sturdy jawbone will better help your implant and prevent failure. Following your bone graft procedure, you may have to wait several months for your dental implant surgery. This is to allow the bone to develop and grow strong enough.
If you need minor bone grafting, it can be performed on the same day of your dental implant surgery. The condition of your jawbone will help your dentist decide which option you require.
Are You Ready for Dental Implants?
If you’re interested in having dental implants, speak with your dentist. They can let you know if you’re a suitable candidate and can help organize a plan that’s suitable for you.
If you live in the St Louis area and you’re interested in dental implants, we can help. Learn more about our dental implant services here.
