4 Ways to Prepare for Dental Implant Surgery

You have butterflies in your stomach. You feel nervous and excited at the same time. You’re not going on a first date—you’re getting dental implants. While you can’t wait to enjoy your new replacement teeth, you can’t calm your anxiety about the implant placement surgery. However, like taking an important test at school or going in for an interview, there’s quite a bit you can do beforehand to get ready. Here are just four ways to prepare for implant surgery and increase your odds of not just implant success but a more comfortable, faster, and better recovery.

Ask Questions

As the patient, you have a responsibility and the right to understand the procedure you’re getting. If there is anything about implants or the recovery process you want or need to know, don’t be shy! Ask your questions until you fully comprehend and feel confident about your dental work.

Follow Instructions

Although some general advice applies in most cases, you’ll want to listen closely to your dentist or specialist, who won’t leave you in the dark prior to the procedure. If they have given you specific instructions, such as medications to take like antibiotics, then by all means follow them! Are you getting IV sedation? If yes, be sure you stop eating by midnight the night before your surgery. Otherwise, you should be okay to eat beforehand. If possible, get your provider’s instructions in writing or take notes so that you don’t forget anything!

Plan Ahead

You need to think now about what your needs will be both before and immediately after the procedure. What will make your recovery easier? Do you have enough soft foods for the first few days? Make sure you have arranged for someone to take you to and from the practice. Ideally, this person would stay with you for a few hours afterward to monitor you and tend to your needs. On the day of the surgery, wear comfortable clothes and use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce the bacteria in your mouth.

Ask for Help

Now is not the time to act tough. Although implant placement is considered minor surgery, your body will need to rest for a few days and avoid strenuous activity. It’s okay to ask for help from family members or friends to lend a helping hand with cleaning, cooking, taking the dog on a walk, or watching the kids. In a few days, you can take back all your normal responsibilities, but for now, don’t be afraid to call upon the people around you for assistance.

Ultimately, when you take an active role in your dental care, you can make sure you have a smooth recovery and successful treatment. The time and effort you put in now will be well worth it when you see your confident, strong smile!

About the Author

Dr. Robert “Bob” LoCastro has been practicing periodontics for more than 30 years. Over the course of his career, he has completed thousands of hours of continuing education and has trained with Dr. Carl Misch, who is a world-renowned leader in the implant field. If you are interested in learning more about dental implants or how to prepare for dental implants, you can contact this implant dentist in Bethel Park through his website or by calling 412-833-6377.