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How to Prepare for Dental Implants

Senior citizen listening to dentist on how to prepare for implants

Are you considering dental implants as a solution for missing or damaged teeth? 

If so, dental implants are an excellent option to consider. Not only do they look and feel like natural teeth, but they’re also durable and long-lasting. However, before you can enjoy the benefits of dental implants, there are some steps you need to take to prepare.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through some of the key things you need to do to prepare for your dental implant procedure.

1. Get a dental examination

The first step in preparing for dental implants is to consult with our experienced dentist. They will examine your teeth and gums to determine if you are a good candidate for implants. They’ll also take X-rays to evaluate the condition of your jawbone and ensure there is enough bone to support the implant.

Our dental team will discuss the procedure with you, including the complexities, and benefits. It’s also important for you to be honest about your medical history and any medications you are taking. Our dentist will take this into consideration when planning your treatment.

At Port Melbourne Dental we have highly skilled dental professionals and quality dental implants to help you restore your beautiful smile. Contact us today for a consultation on how we can help you.

2. Develop a treatment plan

Once our dentist has evaluated your oral health, they’ll work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan. This plan will take into account your individual needs and preferences. As well as the number of implants you need, the type of implant and the placement of the implants. Our dentist will schedule your implant procedure and provide you with detailed instructions on how to prepare.

Feel free to ask any questions or concerns you may have as understanding the process and what to expect will help you prepare for the procedure.

Port Melbourne Dental offers various treatment plans not only for dental implants but for other various dental procedures as well such as cosmetic dentistry, orthodontic treatment, sleep dentistry, teeth whitening and much more!

3. Consider Sedation Options

Does the thought of visiting the dentist make you anxious? 

If you have any anxiety or feel intimidated about dental procedures, talk to our dentist about your sleep dentistry options. Sleep dentistry can help you feel more relaxed and reduce your anxiety during dental procedures.

There are several types of sleep dentistry options available, including local anesthesia, nitrous oxide sedation (laughing gas), oral sedatives and IV sedation. Our experienced dentist can help you pick the best option for your individual case.

4. Prepare for the procedure

Preparing for the dental implant procedure involves taking care of your oral health and making some lifestyle changes. Our dentist will provide you with specific instructions but here are some general tips:

  • Sleep and rest well: Get some good sleep the night before the procedure so that you are well-rested. This can help to facilitate speedy recovery after your implant procedure.
  • Quit smoking: Smoking can affect the success of the implant procedure. So it’s important to quit before and after the procedure to reduce the chances of any complications.
  • Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily and use an antibacterial mouthwash. This will help prevent infection and promote healing. After your procedure, avoid brushing or flossing the implant site until it heals.
  • Prepare soft foods: Make sure you stock up on soft foods such as soup, yogurt etc. Avoid hard and sticky foods that can damage your implant after the procedure.
  • Arrange for transportation: Find someone to accompany you home after the procedure as you may need to take a sedative (either oral sedation or IV sedation) for the procedure.
  • Wear comfortable clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment. Avoid wearing jewellery or anything that could get in the way during the procedure.

5. Plan for aftercare

Aftercare is an essential part of your dental implant process as you’ll need to take some time to recover. Once your implants are in place, you’ll need to take special care of them. This may include avoiding hard or sticky foods, practising good oral hygiene and attending follow-up appointments with our dentist.

It’s also important to rest and give your body time to heal after the procedure. This means avoiding strenuous physical activity for a few days and taking any prescribed medications as directed.

By planning for aftercare and following our dentist’s instructions, you can help ensure that your dental implants heal properly and last for years to come. Remember to be patient and gentle with yourself during the recovery process, and don’t hesitate to reach out to our dentist if you have any concerns.

Conclusion

Dental implants are a long-term investment for your smile and overall quality of life By taking time to properly prepare, you can enjoy the benefits of a satisfying, natural-looking and long-lasting smile.

If you’re considering dental implants, Port Melbourne Dental is the right place for you. Our experienced dental team is dedicated to helping you achieve optimal oral health and a smile that you can be proud of.