Getting dental implants is an exciting way to improve your oral health. They not only restore missing teeth, but they also help safeguard your gums, jawbone, and remaining teeth from further damage. They look just like your natural teeth, and can even accomodate more biteforce than dentures can, making it easier to enjoy the foods you love.
Dental implants are big investment, so naturally you want to protect that investment as best as you can. One of the easiest ways to do that is by preparing yourself for surgery and recovery. Here are a few ways you can get all your dental implant ducks in a row, so your procedure and healing will have the best possible odds for success.
Ask Questions
If you have any questions about dental implants, the surgery procedure, or any of your care instructions, now is the time to ask your dentist. There is no such thing as a bad question, so there’s no need to be shy or embarrassed. Your dentist will happily answer a question he or she has heard a thousand times if it means you will feel safer and more confident about your new smile.
Figure Out Your Finances
Before you get started on your dental implant journey, be sure you have your financing in order. Your dental office can assist you with options for accepted lines of medical credit, or you can pay via another approved payment method.
Follow Instructions
Pre-Op
Prior to your dental implant procedure, your dentist will provide you with a list of pre- and post-op instructions. These instructions are crucial to having a positive surgical outcome, so be sure to follow them to the best of your ability. Prior to your surgery, be sure to stock up on supplies like medications and soft foods so you don’t need to go out and get them when you should be recuperating.
Furthermore, follow all other instructions such as arranging a ride to and from your procedure, quitting smoking if applicable, and not eating after midnight on the evening prior to surgery. You should also arrange some time off from work or other obligations so you can heal and rest before getting back in the swing of things.
Post-Op
For post-op care, be sure to only eat recommended foods, get plenty of rest, and clean your mouth as instructed by your dentist. Also, be sure to attend all your follow-up appointments.
Remember, your habits and behaviors before and after your dental implant surgery can have a lasting impact on your odds of success, so be sure to take your surgical preparation seriously and follow the guidelines provided by your dentist.
About Dr. Bannan
For Dr. Sean Bannan, dentistry is a family business. His father was not only a dentist but also his mentor, helping instill in him a lifelong love of dentistry. Today that affection for the field translates to his genuine care and compassion for his patients, all of whom he considers part of the family, too.
If you are interested in getting dental implants, we welcome you to Water’s Edge Dental. Please visit our website or call us at 386-516-4351.