You might know that the dental implant process is fairly involved. You’ll need good oral health in order to proceed, and once you do, you’re looking at oral surgery and a 6-month recovery time (on average!).
It will be well-worth it for a full smile and improved oral function, but it makes sense that you’d want to be prepared for starting the process! These dentist-approved tips will help you get ready for this life-changing treatment.
Think Ahead
Since you’ll likely have a lengthy recovery time, it’s a good idea to look ahead and prepare for what you might need. Here are some examples of the types of things you should be thinking about:
Transportation
While your dentist will administer an anesthetic to help you feel comfortable during your placement surgery, most patients are able to drive themselves home afterwards. That said, depending on how well your body handles general anesthesia and your mobility, it could help to arrange for a trusted loved one to transport you to and from the office.
Meals
After your implant posts are fixed to your jawbone, you’ll have to stick to a strict soft-food diet while your mouth heals. Making sure you have enough suitable meals for the next week or two will spare you from having to go to the store fresh off of oral surgery!
Schedule
It might sound simple, but double-check your calendar. With the lengthy treatment timeline, it’s important to make sure your schedule reflects your needs for rest and relaxation.
Keep Your Teeth Clean
A clean smile is a healthy smile! Regular oral hygiene habits like brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing at least once per day helps mitigate harmful oral bacteria that cause cavities or gum disease. These conditions can complicate your treatment or cause your implants to fail, so preventative measures are very important.
Rest and Eat a Full Meal
To help your body prepare for your dental implant treatment, it’s a good idea to get as much sleep as possible and eat a full meal before your placement. Rest and nutrients will promote a smoother healing process – and let you savor some tougher foods before it’s time to switch to a soft-food diet!
Conclusion
These tips will help you get ready for your dental implant treatment but so will listening to your dentists’ instructions! Their advice will be more personalized to suit you and your unique oral needs. Plus, they are a professional and will know the best way to promote a smooth treatment. Following their guidance is a surefire way to make sure you’re prepared to receive your new edental implants!
About the Author
Dr. Bikram Singh is a highly accomplished dentist, which is why he’s able to perform the entire dental implant process under one roof – no external referrals needed! He also understands that each patient is unique and goes out of his way to tailor treatment and advice to meet his patients’ needs and preferences. If you’re considering a dental implant treatment in Cary, Dr. Singh would be happy to help you prepare and promote a smooth recovery. To contact his office, call 919-460-5454.