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How to Prepare for Dental Implants

Everything to know when it comes to preparing for dental implant surgery 

So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and invest in dental implants – great news! You’re one step closer to achieving your dream smile and getting your confidence back. But before you get to the fun part (like showing off your brand new pearly whites), there’s some things to do when it comes to preparing for dental implant surgery.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about dental implant preparation – from the initial consultation with us to planning for your recovery. By the end of this, you’ll be fully equipped to face the journey ahead like a pro.

young male being shown in preperation for dental implants

1 – The all important dental implant consultation

The first step in preparing for dental implant surgery is scheduling an initial consultation with  us. This isn’t just a quick ‘open wide and say “ahh” session’; it’s a very comprehensive evaluation to determine whether dental implants are right for you.

What you can expect at your dental implant consultation

A health check – One of our skilled dentists will ask you questions about your overall health. Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, gum disease, or smoking habits can affect implant success, so it is important we are aware of any of these.

dental scan ahead of dental implants

X-Rays and scans of your teeth – These help your dentist assess the quality and quantity of your jawbone. If your bone isn’t dense enough, a bone graft might be necessary before the implant procedure, so it is a vital step in the process.

Discussion time – This is the perfect time to ask questions and discuss concerns. At Smile Stories, we ensure every patient understands their treatment plan inside and out before we get started.

Top tip – Bring a list of medications and your medical history to the consultation. It’ll save time and ensure nothing is overlooked.

2 – If you smoke, quit! (at least temporarily)

If you’re a smoker, you may want to read on – smoking can significantly reduce the success rate of dental implants, and here’s why:

  • Smoking slows healing, which is crucial after surgery.
  • It increases the risk of infection and implant failure.

For best results, stop smoking at least two weeks before and after your surgery. And if you need help quitting, your dentist or GP can point you toward resources to make it easier.

3 – Improve your oral hygiene 

At the end of the day, healthy gums are the foundation of a successful dental implant. So, if your gums are inflamed or infected, they can make the healing process longer and more painful than it needs to be. Keeping on top of your oral hygiene is easier than you may think.

How to improve your oral hygiene 

  • Brush your teeth twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste for two minutes.
  • Floss or use interdental brushes to clean between your teeth.
  • Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce plaque and bacteria.

At Smile Stories, we’ll assess your oral hygiene routine during your consultation and recommend adjustments if needed. We want to get your gums in the best shape possible come surgery time!

4 – Start preparing your body

Did you know that your body’s health directly impacts your recovery time? There are a few things we recommend doing to get ready for surgery:

  • Boost your immune system as much as possible – Eat a balanced diet packed with vitamins and minerals. Leafy greens, citrus fruits, and lean proteins are your best friends. Consider taking a multivitamin if your diet isn’t as balanced as it could be.
  • Stay as active as possible – Regular exercise can improve circulation and overall health, setting the stage for a smoother recovery.
  • Rest up! – Don’t underestimate the power of sleep. Aim for 7–9 hours per night in the weeks leading up to surgery to get your body prepped. 

5 – Plan for recovery time post surgery

We often find that one of the most overlooked aspects of preparing for dental implant surgery is planning for your downtime. Recovery shouldn’t be too long or stressful, so a little bit of planning could make all the difference.

  • Take some time off work – You’ll need a little bit of time to rest after surgery. For most people, 2–3 days off work is plenty, but if your job is physically demanding, you might need longer. Discuss this with us so you can plan ahead.
  • Stock up on some soft foods – Your diet will be limited to soft foods for at least a few days after surgery, so get stocked up on some healthy foods that don’t need much chewing.
  • Arrange for a way to get home after the procedure – Since you may receive sedation during the procedure, you won’t be able to drive yourself home. Ask a friend or family member to give you a lift or arrange for a taxi.

6 – Manage your expectations

Finally, let’s talk about mindset. When it comes to preparing for dental implants, understanding what lies ahead can make a huge difference in how you feel throughout the whole process.

  • Remember that healing takes time – It can take several months for your jawbone to bond with the implant, and that is totally normal. You’ll need to be patient – it’s worth the wait.
  • Swelling and discomfort is 100% normal – Some mild swelling and soreness should be expected, but they’ll pass within a week or two. You may need some pain relief for the first few days, but our team will keep you informed of what is best to take at your appointments with us. 

At Smile Stories, we’ll guide you through every stage of the dental implant process, so you’re never in the dark about what’s happening or what to expect next.

How to prepare for a dental implant – why preparation matters

Proper preparation for dental implants is the secret to a smooth, successful experience. By taking the time to improve your health as much as you can and understand the process, you’re setting yourself up for a much speedier recovery, so you can enjoy your new teeth as soon as possible.

At Smile Stories, we’re committed to making your journey as seamless and stress-free as we possibly can. From your initial consultation to post-surgery care, we’ll be with you every step of the way.

Ready to get started? Book your consultation today and let us help you prepare for your new smile!

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