A visit to the dentist can be quite scary. In fact, just the word dentist conjures images of whirring drills and sharp scalpels too close for comfort. That said, dental procedures are vital for the mouth and overall health; ignoring them will lead to discomfort and complications. Dental implants are one treatment people avoid because of ignorance about the procedure and the required preparation. Thus, here are tips to prepare for a dental implant. 

What are dental implants?
Two questions you will certainly ask are – what are implants, and why do you need them? Dental implants are artificial teeth that are typically inserted when you have missing teeth. They are inserted into the jawbone; thus, bone health is an essential consideration for this procedure. Dentists ensure the implant is custom-made to fit your mouth, and care is taken so it does not stand out among your natural teeth. Dental implants are ideal when you have not lost enough teeth to warrant dentures since they are natural and lower both the risk of cavities and the sensitivity of neighboring teeth. However, as mentioned before, bone health is an important factor that decides if you are eligible for the procedure. 

Tips to prepare for dental implants

Have a comprehensive dental exam done
The first step in all dental procedures is to get a comprehensive examination from a qualified dentist. You might go to the dentist complaining of chipping or sensitivity, but they might inform you of the need for an implant. In such cases, ensure that you get a complete assessment. Visual checks, checking previous dental records, and taking X-rays are all standard preparation before doing a dental implant. Be patient and ensure that your dentist asks questions about your allergies, immunity, treatment options, and bone density. Your dentist might perform bone grafts or jaw reshaping when a dental implant is necessary. The evaluation after a thorough dental exam decides the course of treatment. 

Double-check your remedies
Dentists usually prescribe immunosuppressants after dental implants to ensure that the body does not attack the implant. However, before the procedure, your dentist might advise you to have a course of antibiotics. Also, ensure that you are not allergic to general anesthesia used by your dentist. Ensure that any other remedy you are taking does not interfere with the anesthesia or the antibiotics the dentist prescribes. You must be on guard and be doubly careful if you have chronic health conditions. Antibiotics are vital in these cases. Options like aspirin act as a blood thinner and can interfere with the procedure, so confirm what remedies and supplements are safe for you. 

Do not forget to make food plan modifications
When surgery is planned under general anesthesia, doctors advise that you fast for 12 hours before the procedure. Schedule a morning appointment for the surgical treatment so you can fast through the night. Remember to follow the specific instructions given by your dentist regarding the fast. After the surgery, prepare to eat soft foods. Soups, smoothies, and soft, boiled vegetables might be gentle on your sore gums. Avoid nuts, raw vegetables, and crispy or crunchy foods for a few days. Spicy and acidic foods can also set off your sensitive gums. Be patient and pay extra attention to what makes up your meal for a few days after the dental implant procedure. 

Remember to rest and recuperate
The therapeutic effects of relaxation are no myth. Healing should be your priority after a dental implant. Your gums will be sore and swollen for a few days after a dental implant, and it is good not to plan strenuous events or important meetings a few days after the procedure. Try to get some days off work and ensure your agenda is light up to a week after the surgery. Stock up on soft food and all necessary remedies beforehand so you can relax at home after the surgery. If you have children, try to arrange childcare so you can take it easy for a few days. 

Get a close friend or family member to accompany you
Right after the dental implant procedure, you might be drowsy and disoriented. General anesthesia takes some time to wear off, and thus arrange for a ride back home from the dentist’s clinic. It is also good to have someone responsible accompany you to your appointments so that you get all crucial instructions and are mentally prepared for the procedure. The presence of people you trust is often more than enough to reduce your anxiety in half. After the dental implant, arrange for help around the house or for a family member who can keep you company and support you. No man or woman is an island, so do not hesitate to ask for company when you need it. 

Treat yourself well
Whether it regards your dental hygiene on a good day or the special care, your dentist asks you to take right before and after the implant procedure, make sure you do not do it grudgingly. If you really want, have some of your favorite foods before the procedure since you will be fasting and have dietary restrictions. Don’t have a heavy meal, but eat things you love before your 12-hour fast preceding the dental implant surgery. Get a good night’s sleep, and remember to wear comfortable clothes to the dentist’s clinic. Remember that an implant does not mean all your teeth will automatically be good thereafter. Care and maintenance are essential after the medical procedure as well. 

Prepare psychologically

Any surgery is nerve-wracking, and dentists on their own can be frightening. Put both together, and it is a rollercoaster where fear, anxiety and panic take turns to run the show. Dental implants are no cause for worry. Remember that this is a procedure your dentist has most likely performed dozens of times before. They ensure the implant procedure is successful and has no or minimal ramifications. Remember to ask your dentist as many questions as it takes to calm yourself down, and make a record of all the things they advise you to do. Panic is a dental procedure’s worst enemy and has detrimental effects on surgical outcomes and recovery. Breathe deeply, and remember to equip yourself with the proper knowledge, so you are not caught off guard.