If you are getting dental implants soon, you are probably looking forward to having your strong teeth and beautiful smile back. Dental implants are placed surgically, and preparing yourself in the days before can help to ensure that everything goes smoothly. Keep reading to find 5 tips for how to prepare for your dental implant surgery and you’ll be back on your feet in no time.
#1: Get Plenty of Rest the Night Before
While dental implantation is not a major surgery, you will want to be as healthy and refreshed as possible going into it. Try to eat a balanced meal and get a full night’s rest before your procedure. Doing so will make it easier for your body to recover quickly once the implantation is complete.
#2: Take All Prescribed Medications Before the Appointment
Your dentist may prescribe you medication to take before the surgery, like antibiotics to treat or prevent infection, or anxiety medication to help you relax throughout the procedure. Make sure you take these exactly as directed so that the implantation goes without a hitch.
#3: Stock Your Fridge
After the dental implants have been placed, you may not feel like eating much as a result of the sedation and/or due to soreness at the implantation site. Plus, you shouldn’t be chewing anything hard to ensure that the area heals properly. Make things easier on yourself by preparing some soft foods to eat in advance of your procedure. Mashed potatoes, vegetable purees, and fruit smoothies are all great choices for post-surgery dining.
#4: Arrange for a Ride Home
If you have oral or IV sedation to help you relax during the procedure, you will want to make a plan for someone to help you get home. You will not be able to drive until the effects of sedation wear off completely, which takes a few hours. Arrange a ride with a friend or loved one and consider asking them to check on you throughout the day, too.
#5: Plan to Take It Easy for the Day
You will surely want to clear your schedule for the rest of the day after getting your new dental implants. Your body will need rest to recover. Trying to do too much too soon could potentially delay your healing and possibly even lead to dental implant failure. Listen to your body and give it time to adjust after the implantation.
Follow these tips and you’ll be ready for your upcoming procedure! Get ready to love your smile again with dental implants.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Joel Scheir and Dr. Danielle Scheir (Dr. Joel and Dr. Dani) are a father-daughter duo joined by Dr. Rebecca Portnoff – and together this team is providing excellent cosmetic and general dentistry services to patients of all ages. If you are interested in learning more about dental implants, including whether or not this tooth replacement option is right for you, do not hesitate to contact their office by calling (845) 634-0444.