Preparing for Dental Implant Surgery: 4 Helpful Tips

You’re finally doing something about those missing teeth—good for you! You’ve talked with your dentist about receiving dental implants and a brighter, beautiful smile is on the horizon. However, you might not know what to expect when it comes to dental implant surgery; here are four tips to help prepare you for the process.

1. Ask Questions Beforehand

As a patient, you have the right to fully understand the procedure you’re receiving. If you have any questions about dental implants, the actual surgery, the recovery process, or anything else, there’s absolutely no reason to be shy or refrain from seeking answers. Your dentist or oral surgeon is the best person to talk to concerning dental implants—take advantage of the opportunity to ask an expert and put any initial concerns to rest.

2. Follow Any Instructions Carefully

Based on the specifics of your treatment, you will be provided with pre-op instructions (typically printed out) and guidelines to follow. It’s vital that you adhere to these instructions closely, so you don’t risk jeopardizing your implants or oral health! For instance, sometimes you’ll be asked to refrain from eating or drinking past midnight the night before surgery, if you’re going to receive IV sedation. Often, you’ll have to take medication and refrain from certain foods after the procedure. If you ever have any questions about the instructions you’re meant to follow, ask your dentist for clarification.

3. Plan Ahead

Consider your needs, both before and after the procedure. Are you going to need someone to give you a ride? What items do you need around the house to help with the recovery process? Are you able to stay home from work and receive assistance as needed? There are a lot of things to consider here, and planning ahead can save you a lot of trouble when you’re in the middle of recovering. Be sure you’re also stocked up on plenty of soft foods and drinks, as you probably won’t feel like grocery shopping!

4. Seek Help as Needed

Although implant surgery is considered minor, your body is still going to need to rest and recover for a few days; that said, don’t be afraid to ask for help! It’s recommended to have someone stay with you after the procedure for a few hours anyway to monitor you and tend to your needs. You’ll be back to normal soon, but those first few days can be tough, so request assistance as needed.

Dental implants can give you the smile of your dreams, but you want to make sure the process goes as smoothly as possible. Knowing what to expect before and after the procedure can help put any doubts to rest and ensure that your results are astonishing.

About the Practice

Peery & Woolwine Family Dentistry proudly serves patients of all ages in the Lynchburg community. The practice is led by the awesome team of Dr. James M. Peery Jr., Dr. Samuel E. Woolwine III, and Dr. James M. Peery III. The three of them combine their knowledge and expertise to provide a comfortable and comprehensive treatment plan for every patient. Their practice offers a wide variety of services, including dental implants. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, feel free to contact the practice through their website or by phone: (434) 847-5331.