Getting dental implants is not nearly as invasive as many other surgeries. It is not like getting your appendix removed or your hip replaced — but it is a surgery. As such, you will want to spend some time preparing ahead before you get dental implants. Here's how to do that.
Find someone to give you a ride to and from the procedure.
Dental implants are often put into place when you're sedated and under local anesthesia. You won't be completely unconscious, but it does take a few hours for the sedation to wear off, and it won't be safe for you to drive with these substances in your system. The pain relievers you'll probably start taking after the procedure make it unsafe to operate a vehicle, too. As such, you will need someone to drive you to and from the dentist. They won't necessarily need to stay with you overnight or for days afterward like they would with a more invasive procedure, but if they can, that will be nice.
Stock up on soft foods.
Dental surgeons don't always give you clear guidelines as to when you can return to eating regular food after dental implant surgery. And that's because it really depends. Some patients are able to chew a few days after their procedure as long as they avoid chewing where the implant is. Other patients are not comfortable chewing for a few weeks. Your safest bet is to stock up on plenty of soft foods since you know you'll be able to eat them. Mashed potatoes, yogurt, and applesauce are all good, relatively healthy choices.
Make a pain management station.
After your surgery, you will be able to get up and move around as normal. But you may not feel like it! You'll have some mouth pain, and you'll probably feel tired from the sedation and pain relievers. Create a station near your couch with pain relievers, saltwater, a stress ball, and soft pillows you can use, as needed, for comfort while you're sitting on the couch and resting post-surgery.
Replace your toothbrush.
You will need to keep brushing your teeth after implant surgery. Yes, you will have to do so carefully to avoid hurting the surgical sites, but brushing is important to decrease the risk of infection. Replace your toothbrush prior to surgery so you don't have to worry about introducing bacteria to your mouth post-surgery. Choose a soft toothbrush that will cause less discomfort when you use it.
Following the tips above will ensure you are ready for your dental implant procedure. Talk to your dentist to learn more.
Share16 July 2020
Do you care for your teeth like you should? Most people brush their teeth, but so many people rush through this process and are not as careful as they should be. Still others avoid flossing. A lack of dental care over the years can lead to increased decay. Thankfully, we have dentists who can treat decay with fillings, crowns, and in some cases, root canals. Dentists also provide preventative care. They can clean your teeth and use things like fluoride treatments to strengthen your enamel. The more you know about dental care, the better you'll be able to care for your mouth, so feel free to read some of the articles on this website.