5 Essential Preparations For A Dental Implant Surgery
It can be mentally overwhelming when your dentist suggests a dental implant surgery. It's normal to have questions about what it is, how it will be conducted, and the overall experience. Thus, it is advisable to undertake a few preparation steps to get your mind and body ready for the surgery.
How Do You Prepare for Dental Implant Surgery?
Being physically and mentally prepared for the process is vital. Getting prepared helps the patient feel better about the overall process.
Here are a few essential tips on how you can prepare:
1. Medical Examination
The first exam is conducted by the dentist to ascertain if, indeed, you are a good candidate for the surgery. Based on the severity of your problem, they can then come up with a treatment plan. The initial evaluation mainly involves taking an x-ray, reviewing your medical records, and a visual exam.
Further assessment may be necessary to evaluate your overall body immunity, the state of your jaws, and existing allergies.
2. Financial Issues
Normally, your dentist will recommend either endosteal or subperiosteal dental implants, and both differ in costs. The pricing will also vary based on the number of teeth being replaced. Thus, discuss all the money matters with the doctor to comprehensively understand what to expect.
Dental surgery costs could be high since the procedure involves many complimentary services. Once you understand the cost, then you can decide whether to pay everything out-of-pocket or consider dental insurance.
3. Get All General Information
Once the dental implant surgery has been scheduled, you will still require further prep work. Engage your dentist and get information about:
- The sedation chosen for you. This determines if you will eat anything before the surgery or not.
- Whether you will be taking any antibiotic before the oral procedure.
4. Prepare for the Big Day
Dentists should always provide guidelines for patients to adhere to in the hours leading to the surgery. Some of them include:
- Wearing loose, comfortable clothing
- Removing contact lenses
- Not wearing nail polish or makeup
- Not drinking alcohol or smoking 24 hours before the operation
5. Prepare for After-Care
Once the dental implant surgery is complete, you expect swelling and soreness. You will need ample time to heal and rest.
Some preparations to do include arranging for child care, preparing soft foods such as soups, pasta, and smoothies in advance, and stocking up on pain medication. You may also want to take a break from work for a few days.
Conclusion
With all the above tips, you will approach dental implant surgery with confidence. Once the procedure is complete and you are healed, you will be able to smile bright again. You will be surprised that your new teeth function and feel as comfortable as the normal ones.
If you have additional questions about dental implants, contact a local dental surgeon.