How To Prepare For Dental Implant Surgery

If you have one or more missing teeth, you may be a candidate for dental implants. Unlike a crown, which is secured over a remaining portion of tooth after a root canal, a dental implant is attached directly to your jawbone. Even though dental implants can be more costly than crowns, they are very durable and sometimes last a lifetime.

Advantages

Another advantage of dental implants is that they are almost identical to natural teeth for a flawless look. Also, they are fixed in your mouth rather than removable, like dentures, so you don't have to worry about them falling out while talking or eating. Since dental implants are permanently in your mouth, you can care for them in the same way as your natural teeth. 

Getting dental implants can be a big decision and investment, so it's important to prepare for the surgery ahead of time. Doing a little research prior to your appointment can make the process go as smoothly as possible. 

Preparation

Here are some ways that you can get ready for dental implant surgery:

1. Meet with an oral surgeon to make sure you're a good candidate for dental implants. Your gums and jaw bone will need to be healthy enough to secure the implant. Also, ask your doctor to clear you for surgery if you have any known heart or other health issues. 

2. Check with your dental insurance carrier prior to surgery so that you know what your out-of-pocket cost will be. You don't want to be surprised by a large fee on the big day. 

3. Prep a week's worth of meals ahead of time so you won't have to worry about cooking during the recovery process. Since your gums and jaw may be swollen and tender after the surgery, make and freeze soft foods such as soups, stews and pasta. Have ingredients to make smoothies on hand as well, in case you can only consume liquids for a few days. Also, try to clear your schedule for a few days after the surgery so that you can rest and recuperate. 

4. Ask someone to give you a ride home after surgery. Since you may be given pain medications that can make you drowsy during implant surgery, it's necessary to secure transportation ahead of time. If you can't find a friend or family member to pick you up, ask the receptionist to call you a taxi cab.

Contact a dentist office, like Airport Road Dental Associates, for more help.


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