Dental implants are one of the best achievements of modern dentistry, and they can be a life-changing treatment for people who have lost one or multiple teeth or even all of their teeth. Dental implants look great and function just like your natural teeth. This being said, a dental implant procedure takes a certain amount of preparation on a dental implant specialist’s and a patient’s side. In this article, we will talk about effectively preparing for dental implant placement.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Not only do dental implants have cosmetic benefits, but they also significantly improve the food chewing and speaking ability of patients. Getting dental implants also prevents the loss of the jawbone density and sunken appearance of the face.
Dental implants consist of a post that is surgically implanted in the jawbone, and a dental crown that mimics the appearance and function of natural teeth. After the post is placed in the jawbone, the healing process begins. Over time the post fuses with the bone and is ready to become a secure and stable support for the new artificial tooth.
The metal post represents the roots of a tooth and provides an excellent biting force. The biting force of dental implants is very high—about 90% of the biting force of our natural teeth. In comparison, the biting force of dentures is only about 20%. On top of that, the post stimulates the jawbone, preventing its atrophy and “shrinking.”
Preparing for Dental Implant Placement
Getting dental implants is a surgical procedure that requires some time and body resources for healing afterward. The success of the treatment depends on several factors, including adequate preparation. Your dentist will most likely give you all the necessary recommendations and advice. Below, we put together a quick guide on preparing for dental implant placement.
The Day Before Dental Implant Treatment
The surgery is typically done using local anesthesia, but you are still likely to feel tired and sleepy afterward. It is not advisable to drive home by yourself, so start by arranging a method of transportation to and from the dental office. If you are receiving dental implants under general anesthesia, then you will not be able to drive for the next 24 hours.
You should avoid eating and drinking in the evening before the surgery if it is done under general anesthesia. It is also advisable not to eat for a couple of hours before the surgery is done under local anesthesia to avoid feeling nauseous during the procedure.
It is also crucial to abstain from smoking and tobacco use, as nicotine contracts blood vessels and prevents normal blood flow.
If you were prescribed any medication for your procedure, take them as directed by your dentist.
The Morning of the Dental Implant Procedure
Continue to follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding fasting before the procedure
Choose roomy and comfortable clothing, especially avoiding clothes with tight collars that can impede breathing and blood flow
Brush your teeth in the morning as you usually do
If you were prescribed any preoperative medication by your dentist, follow their directions in taking them
Make a list of allergies or other medical conditions you have and bring it to the dental office (also, you should discuss those conditions with your doctor when planning the surgery)
Plan for Self Care and Rest for the Time After the Surgery
Remember that getting dental implants is a surgical procedure and your body needs time to heal and rest after it. On top of that, there are certain dietary and life-style restrictions you need to adhere to. This type of down time is crucial for the success of the procedure and for the jawbone to properly fuse with the new implants.
- Take several days off work to minimize movement
- Completely exclude any sports activity because it can increase the blood flow to the surgery site, causing bleeding
- Prepare ingredients for liquid and soft diet for the first 10 days after the procedure, as you will not be allowed to eat normal food while the surgery site is healing
- Prepare over-the-counter painkillers such as Ibuprofen to help with pain that you will most likely experience for a couple of days after the procedure
- Be ready to abstain from smoking and using tobacco products while your gums are healing because nicotine will seriously impede this process
Make an Appointment Today
If you are considering whether getting dental implants is a right procedure for you or have any questions about the surgery, do not hesitate to call Shodhan dentistry. Make an appointment with a friendly local dentist today and receive a personalized consultation and thorough examination of your case. We are looking forward to welcoming you to our office.
