Preparing for Dental Implants

Dental implants are a common solution today for replacing missing teeth. If you are considering dental implants, below are some things you should know to prepare. Proper preparation can ease any doubts and anxieties that arise as well as promote quick healing after dental implant surgery.

1.       Get a Dental Exam

During the dental examination, your dentist will conduct x-rays and several visual evaluations. If there are any underlying dental problems, your dentist will treat these problems first. The dentist will also go through your medical history to gather helpful information for the procedure.

For instance, the practitioner may use alternatives if your medical history reveals allergies to a particular drug. For medication such as blood thinners that may affect the surgery, the dentist can advise you to regulate their use. The information gathered will help the dentist determine the best treatment for you.

2.       Prepare the Jaw

The dentist will examine your jaw and determine if it can hold the implant securely. A bone graft may be necessary if your dentist determines that your jaw has inadequate bone material. Therefore, you will need time after the bone graft to allow the area to heal before placing an implant.

Impacted teeth may also need to be removed. Once your jaw heals, you're ready for the surgery.

3.       Increase Antibiotic Intake

Your dentist may recommend the use of antibiotics before the surgery. After the procedure, your dentist may prescribe immunosuppressant drugs. These drugs prevent the body from attacking the implants, leading to failure.

The antibiotics will help boost your immune system during this time. If you have a chronic medical condition, you may need to take antibiotics before and after the dental implant surgery.

4.       Stop Smoking

Dentists usually advise that you quit smoking a few weeks before dental implant surgery and be free of nicotine-based products. Nicotine restricts blood flow to your gums during inhalation and weakens the body’s immune system, making it more difficult to heal.

5.       Prepare for Recovery

Your gums will be sore from the procedure, so you'll want to avoid chewing hard foods. Therefore, ensure you stock up on soft foods before surgery. These include pasta, soups, smoothies, and shakes.

Furthermore, plan to avoid any hectic routines after the procedure. Take time to rest and monitor your oral health. Follow your dentist's post-operation guidelines for a quick recovery and call if you notice any abnormalities. Dental implants are a great tooth replacement option that can be highly successful with the right preparation!