Dental implants can be the smart choice for anyone who wants to improve their teeth. Teeth implants are artificial tooth roots that are shaped like screws. They are placed within the jawbone and will fuse with the natural bone over time. The screws become the support for the artificial tooth known as the crown.
These teeth implants are meant to feel as natural as possible. A dental implant is the closest you can get to healthy natural teeth. If you want to find out more benefits of getting teeth implants and how to prepare for your next procedure, continue reading below.
The Importance of Dental Implants
You may want to consider dental implants if you are missing one or two teeth. You may have other artificial teeth that may not be functional, thus, going through a dental implant procedure can provide functional replacements.
You can lose teeth to periodontal disease or infections and getting implants can remedy this. Having teeth implants can fill the gaps in lost or broken teeth and prevent future dental issues. These implants can match your teeth, making them easy to adjust to.
There are other benefits to getting dental implants like improved speech and being able to chew. If you wear dentures, they tend to slip in your mouth. This can cause you to mumble and slur your words. But implants are designed to fuse to your bone, so they stay secure and prevent slippage.
How to Prepare for Dental Implants
If you have made your dental implant choices and made an appointment, the next step is preparing for your procedure. There are some tasks you will want to complete before the surgery.
You can be ready for your surgery by wearing comfortable clothes, rinsing your mouth and having a good breakfast. Another example is to prepare soft foods. Another way is to make the right plans for your healing process to go smoothly. Below are some actions you can take to have an efficient recovery after dental surgery.
Prepare Soft Foods
Preparing soft foods before your surgery is important. After the procedure, your gums will be sore for a couple of days, making it difficult to eat harder foods like raw vegetables.
If you decide to consume harder foods, the dental implant cost will be more than just money. Foods you can prepare in advance are smoothies, pasta and soups. These foods will not be as harsh on your gums and will keep you sated.
Making the fruits and vegetables in your fridge into juices is a great way to get the nutrients you need. Nutritional shakes can also serve as a meal substitute while your gums heal. Try to avoid acidic or spicy food while you are recovering as well.
Make Proper Arrangements
When a patient is going to be sedated, dental implant dentists should inform him or her to fast for at least four to 12 hours. Ask the oral surgeon for any specific instruction on fasting. Fasting before surgery is important because the reflexes of the body are temporarily stopped. Food in the stomach may put the patient at risk of regurgitation.
Moreover, when you are healing from dental surgery, do not make any important plans around this time. Leave any strenuous or serious events until a week after the implant surgery. You must dedicate the first few days to taking care of yourself. Resting and caring for the oral cavity should be a priority.
It is possible to go back to your normal routines after three days, but you should not create a hectic schedule. A filled schedule can create tension and may extend your recovery period.
Confirm Medications and Supplements
Before going in for surgery, confirm with your dentist about the medications you will need post-surgery. You should also ask which drugs and supplements are safe to use before the procedure. If you are taking blood thinners, then it is important to let your surgeon know.
When you are going to get dental implants, you should avoid aspirin, vitamin C and omega-3 fish oils. Other medications you may want to avoid is ibuprofen and over-the-counter herbs. There are specific herb supplements that can affect bleeding. Overall, follow the instructions from your doctor.
Rest Well and Maintain Oral Hygiene
The night before the surgery, make sure to get enough rest. When you are well rested for the day of your surgery, you can ensure a speedy recovery after the procedure. Dental implant dentists will also recommend to their patients to continue their oral hygiene regimen.
If you want your dental implant surgery to be a success, you must maintain an oral hygiene routine. Slacking on your dental care can cause infection and slow down your healing.
Failing to maintain your oral hygiene can also cause the dental implant to lose function. Make sure to follow the post-surgery rules provided by your doctor.
