If you’ve been seeking a resilient and reliable way to replace your missing teeth, you could potentially benefit from dental implants. These restorations continue to gain popularity because they’re the only ones embedded directly into your jaw for added strength and stability. This allows them to provide unique advantages over alternative methods like dentures or dental bridges.
However, they’re also the only artificial teeth that require oral surgery to be placed, and it’s normal to feel nervous if you’re not sure what to expect during your appointment. Continue reading to learn about three things you can do before your procedure to help you feel prepared!
Provision #1: Gather Information
Often, the reason patients experience dental anxiety is because they fear the unknown and don’t have a solid understanding of what will happen once they’re in the dentist’s chair. That’s why it’s essential to ask any questions you may have about the surgery itself, as well as the anticipated recovery and results, before proceeding.
You’ll need to schedule a consultation with your dentist to verify whether dental implants are the best solution to meet your needs and to determine whether your mouth can support them. This is also the perfect time to discuss any questions or concerns you have, like what your artificial teeth will look and feel like or what symptoms are normal as you heal. Once you get all the information, you’ll feel more confident and can set your worries aside.
Provision #2: Plan Ahead
You’ll likely need to make plans in advance of your surgery to ensure that you can recover as quickly and efficiently as possible afterward. For example, you’ll be numb and sedated and will need to have a trusted person help drive you home after your appointment.
Once you’re home, you’ll need to get as much rest as possible to avoid damaging the blood clot that must form over the implant site for it to heal. That means steering clear of strenuous activities or exercises that elevate your blood pressure or heart rate. As a result, you might need extra help with chores around the house, like regularly walking the dog or cooking meals for the family.
Provision #3: Follow Pre-Op Instructions
If your dental team gives you a list of things to do before you arrive, following it in detail can help ensure a successful surgery. For example, you might be asked to fast for a designated period if you’re going to receive IV sedation or to take antibiotics that were prescribed to help prevent infection. It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable clothing that doesn’t feel overly restrictive or revealing so you can better relax during your procedure.
By taking a few steps to prepare appropriately, you significantly increase the likelihood of dental implant success!
About the Practice
At LIC Dental Associates, you benefit from a team of general practitioners and specialists who conveniently provide a full range of services under one roof. With decades of combined experience in various topics, they can help patients of all ages improve their oral health regardless of their current oral condition. Plus, they have the extensive training and state-of-the-art equipment required to perform dental implant surgery in the office, so you don’t have to seek an additional provider. If you’d like a consultation, you can request an appointment on the website or call (718) 530-6539.