Implants are recommended for people who have damaged or missing teeth and want a functional and permanent replacement. The surgery replaces the damaged teeth with artificial ones that look and function like real ones, and the roots are replaced by metal. It’s a fairly easy routine option when offered by a qualified, experienced doctor. However, it’s still a serious surgery that needs preparation. These tips will help you do the same.

1.Start With A Comprehensive Dental Exam

Planning for the surgery may involve a variety of specialists but mostly a dentist specializing in cases like yours. Review your medical history with your doctor on your first appointment. Tell them any underlying medical conditions and if you are taking any drugs. If you have orthopedic implants or certain heart conditions, your doctor may prescribe you antibiotics before the surgery. It helps prevent infections during recovery. The doctor would probably require a dental X-ray and your teeth and jaw images. 

Every implant surgery is different depending on the condition of the patient. These images will help the doctor customize a treatment plan for you. After your first visit, you will have a rough idea of what to expect, and you can prepare accordingly. Find out if bone grafting is necessary. Sometimes if your jawbone isn’t thick enough to support the implants, the doctor would consider bone grafting.

2.Follow Pre-Op Instructions From Your Doctor

The dentist will inform you of the dos and don’ts, and you have to follow them strictly because they are for your own good. The first thing most doctors advise is to stop smoking. Smoking greatly impairs your ability to heal and affects sedation levels during treatment. This is easier said than done, but if you want the implants to work and recover faster, consider putting that cigarette down for a few weeks before the procedure. 

Don’t consume alcohol for at least three days before the operation. Getting your body ready helps the process go smoothly. You may have to fast for 12 hours before the appointment day. But talk to the doctor first about the fasting period. A good night’s sleep will help ease your worries and ensure your body is well-rested before the day of the surgery.

3.Stock Up On Soft Drinks And Food

Most patients keep forgetting that their diet will change a little bit after the surgery. You will have to stick to a soft diet for a while when you are recovering. It’s best to buy all the foods and drinks you will need for the first couple of days before you go for the surgery appointment. You may not be feeling 100% yourself after surgery, so going food shopping might be out of the question. While you are making plans, don’t forget to clear your schedule. 

Dental implants surgery only takes a few hours, but it’s essential to take the day off and rest. Most patients can go back to work after two or three days. Also, secure a ride home and, if it’s possible, have someone stay with you for at least 24 hours after the procedure. When you have someone to help, you will get enough time to rest as the doctor recommended.

4.Plan For Recovery And Aftercare

Expect some soreness and swelling after the procedure. Over-the-counter painkillers are usually enough to alleviate any pain and discomfort. After two days, you will feel much better but have a light schedule for a week. On average, the implants will take six months to heal completely. You need to have a long-term recovery plan. Find out if you need specific products for oral care before the procedure and buy them. 

Oral hygiene is crucial during recovery; it helps the implants heal as quickly as possible. You will probably have to schedule follow-up visits with your doctor. The dentist will assess the surgical site and how the healing is going. Call your doctor every time you are experiencing complications like too much pain or swelling.

Conclusion

If you have an implant surgery coming up, you probably wondered what you would do to prepare. These tips should guide you on which steps to take next as you wait for the operation. There are going to be minor lifestyle changes before and after the surgery. But before you make any changes talk to your doctor first.