Dental Implants offer many advantages; However, some patients might have mixed emotions about the procedure due to its nature. There are a few things that you can do to help prepare yourself to make sure that your experience goes smooth and you have an excellent recovery.
Before you go through the implant process, you might want to consider the following:
Clear your schedule: This means to make sure that you don’t pack your calendar full of events right before and right after your procedure. You want to be well rested before, and you want to make sure you have a few days of rest after. The first three days after your procedure should be strictly devoted to self-care and making sure you get lots of rest. Some patients are able to rebound quickly and return to work, or normal activities, but it’s always better to side with caution and schedule a few days to recover.
Wear comfortable clothes: You will be in the dental chair for an extended amount of time, so you want to make sure you are as comfortable as possible. Wear clothing that is loose fitting and comfortable. It is best to leave big jewelry, watches and other accessories at home so they don’t interfere with your procedure, or get in the dentists way. It might also be best to avoid wearing heavy makeup on your scheduled procedure day. When you get home you might want to crawl straight into bed or lay on your couch, so plan accordingly with that in mind.
Meal planning: Plan and prep foods that are soft and easy to eat without having to chew. For the first few days your gums will be tender and it might be uncomfortable to chew harder foods. Stay away from nuts, hard vegetables, tough meats etc… Juicing, or smoothies are a great way to get nutrients during this time. Protein shakes or other pre-made nutritional shakes are an excellent alternative to still get healthy food into your body. Avoiding acidic or spicy foods can help during this healing stage.
Eating: Be sure to eat before your procedure to make sure your blood sugar and energy are maintained during and after your procedure. Check with your dentist to see if you are going under sedation for your procedure. If you are, you should not eat for 4-12 hours before your surgery.
Arrange for a ride home: It is always a good idea to have someone drive you home after your procedure. You might have elected to have an oral sedative before, or even IV sedation. If you had either of those you should not drive yourself home after. You might also be in a little bit of pain and won’t feel up to driving. Have a friend or family member waiting for you when you are finished so they can get your right home to rest.
Just like any other surgery, there will be some discomfort. Most patients say they were much more comfortable following their procedure than they anticipated. By following this advice, you can improve your experience and be well on your way to recovery and enjoying your new teeth.