If you’re looking to get dental implant surgery, there are some important things to keep in mind. First, you should talk to your dentist to find out what they recommend for surgery preparation the day before. These instructions are the most important part of the entire process, so pay attention and call the office if you have any questions.
Once you know what to expect with your dental implant surgery, there are some things you can do to prepare yourself. We’ll cover some of our top tips for ensuring your dental implant surgery goes well, from before you arrive at your appointment to your immediate recovery.
Review Dentist Instructions
Reviewing your dentist’s instructions is the most important thing you can do pre-surgery or procedure. Your dentist will provide detailed instructions on what to do before your appointment, including if you should avoid eating food beforehand, brush your teeth, and take any medications before arriving. You should pay attention to these instructions and be sure to call your dentist if you have any questions beforehand. Your dental team would be happy to help answer your questions so you know what to expect and are ready to go on the day of your surgery.
Wear Loose Clothing
This applies to almost any dental procedure or surgery, but wear loose, comfortable clothing, preferably without a collar. You want to make sure you don’t have anything restricting, as this can be uncomfortable during and after your surgery. Remember to bring extra layers of clothing for your drive home, such as an easy-to-zip-up hoodie, as you’ll likely feel cold from anesthesia. It would help if you also had an easy-to-put-on shoe for your arrival home, as trying to bend down to take off your shoes may be difficult after the procedure.
In general, don’t try and win any fashion awards before your dental implant surgery. Instead, opt for comfortable, loose clothing that’s easy to move around and doesn’t obscure your neck or face area. Consider putting up your hair if you have long hair or choosing a style that stays out of your face.
Have Easy-to-Eat Food on Hand
Following your surgery, you should check your dentist’s recommendations on safe foods. If you are having dental extractions done before getting implants, avoid sucking on straws, as this can dislodge clots and lead to dry sockets. Choose easy-to-eat, soft foods that don’t require you to chew, and remember to check with your dentist about foods to avoid. Typically, it’s also best to avoid foods that are too hot or cold after dental surgery, as your mouth may be too numb to sense temperature.
Have a Ride Home
It would help if you had a ride to the dentist and a ride home going into surgery, as you cannot operate heavy machinery after anesthetic. Be sure to have comfortable pillows and blankets in the car after your surgery, as you may want them. Talk with your ride about what to expect as you come out of anesthesia, and be sure to check with your dentist about what time they plan for the procedure to end, especially if you have someone coming to pick you up.
If you have questions about dental implant surgery or would like to schedule a dental appointment, call Smile with Grace Dental Care at (201) 641-1111. We look forward to hearing from you.
