5 Tips to Prepare for Dental Implant Surgery

Dental implants are among the most popular – and reliable – tooth replacement solutions available today. However, if you are planning on restoring your smile with implants in the near future, you may feel a bit nervous or unsure about the surgical step of the process. Fortunately, there are some easy steps you can take to prepare yourself for a successful dental implant surgery. Just follow these 5 tips, and you’ll be amazed at how easy the experience can be.  

1. Ask Questions

Feeling informed about the implant placement procedure can help settle any nerves you may be experiencing. The best way to learn more is to simply ask your dentist! During the initial consultation, be sure to ask any and all questions you have about getting dental implants. Remember, there is no such thing as a dumb question! Your dentist will be happy to explain the steps of the implant process in greater detail and address any concerns you may have.

2. Arrange Transportation

Dental implant surgery is often performed using IV sedation, which means it may not be safe to drive yourself home afterward. Once your surgery date is confirmed, ask a friend or family member to drop you off and pick you up. If your ride prefers to stick around while your implants are placed, let them know they may need to keep themselves occupied for at least two to three hours.

3. Go Grocery Shopping

You will need to stick to a soft food diet for at least the first 24 hours after dental implant surgery. As you should be headed straight home after your implants are placed, it’s a good idea to do your grocery shopping before the day of your surgery. Yogurt, smoothies, applesauce, mashed potatoes, or creamy soups are all great food options to pick up.

4. Clear Your Schedule

In the days leading up to dental implant surgery, try to tie up any loose ends on work projects so coworkers won’t be tempted to bother you as begin your recovery at home. Do not plan to go directly back to work or schedule other activities the day you get your dental implants placed. Instead, you should head straight home and plan on giving your body some much-needed rest.

5. Follow Pre-Op Instructions from Your Dentist

Finally, be sure to follow any specific pre-op instructions provided by your dentist. This could include taking antibiotics, incorporating antibacterial mouthwash into your oral care routine, following fasting requirements if IV sedation will be used, or more. Closely following your dentist’s instructions will ensure that you are fully prepared to proceed with dental implant surgery on the scheduled appointment date.

Now that you’ve read the 5 tips above, do you feel more confident about the implant placement procedure? Then it’s time to call your dentist to schedule an initial consultation or let them know you’re ready to move forward toward your new, complete smile!

About the Author

A proud graduate of the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio, Dr. George Stoddard has 25 years of experience helping patients restore their smiles. He partners with the best specialists in Longview and the surrounding area to provide reliable implant treatment. To learn more about how to prepare for dental implant surgery, visit the Longview Dental Center website or call Dr. Stoddard at 903-753-9758.