Getting dental implants involves a surgical procedure, or in some cases, multiple procedures across several months. When you adequately prepare to get dental implants, you get your body ready for the oral surgeries and help your mouth heal afterward. Proper preparation also increases the likelihood that your dental implant will be successful, so you can enjoy a beautiful smile for years to come.
Get a Dental Examination
The first step in preparing for a dental implant procedure is getting your dentist’s assessment on whether you are a good candidate. Your dental examination may involve a visual exam of your mouth, x-rays and a review of your medical records. Based on this information, your dentist will put together a dental implant procedure timeline, taking care to make special considerations based on your health. They will go over their plan with you so you know what to expect at every step. This is also a good time to find out if you have a dental plan that covers implants.
Take Your Medications
If you have a chronic condition or other medical concerns, your dentist may have you take antibiotics. These will act as a substitute immune system and help prevent early implant failure. Your dentist may also have you rinse out your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash to keep germs away from the surgery area.
Prepare Your Jaw
If your jawbone is thin or soft or your tooth has been missing for some time, your jawbone cannot adequately support an implant, so a bone graft may be necessary. The bone grafting material may be a synthetic material or come from another area of your body. It rebuilds the affected area of your jawbone for greater strength, which is necessary due to the force of chewing. A sturdy jawbone will better support your implant and prevent failure.
After your bone grafting, you may have to wait several months to have your implant surgery to allow the bone to grow strong enough. If you require minor bone grafting, it can take place the day of your implant surgery. The condition of your jawbone will determine which option you need.
Watch What You Eat
Before your surgery, have a good, light meal. If you are doing IV sedation, do not eat after midnight the evening before your surgery, so your stomach is empty.
Make Post-Op Preparations
Resting is essential for healing. Before your surgery, make some plans to take it easy, including:
- Lightening up your schedule for one week.
- Asking for help around the house or watching your children for two days.
- Buying soft and cold foods and pain medication.
- Taking two days off of work and social plans.
- Stopping exercise.
If you need IV sedation, arrange for transportation home as you will be unable to drive.
Get a Hiossen® Implant as Your Dental Implant
Hiossen Implant is a unique and innovative solution. Our implants are made with the strictest standards to ensure quality that lasts decades — even a lifetime. Learn more about our implants by contacting us today.
