How to Prepare for Dental Implant Surgery

Dental implants are an alternative to dentures. They add to your confidence and make eating and talking so much easier. Dental implant surgery is an involved process and requires several visits with specialists. Follow these steps to prepare for dental implant surgery.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Have a thorough evaluation. You need to get a complete dental exam with X-rays and models of your mouth.

2. Tell your dentist about any existing medical conditions. It's important he know if you have any orthopedic implants, heart or vascular problems. You may need to take antibiotics before getting the dental implants.

3. Run through your dental implant procedure plan with your dentist. Make sure you know exactly what to expect during all your surgeries.

4. Quit smoking and excessive drinking. Both are detrimental to your health and can actually lead to the dental implant procedure failing.

5. Avoid eating or drinking for at least 6 hours before your dental implant appointment.

6. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing on the day of your surgery. You will be sedated, so it's important to feel comfortable.

7. Ask a friend or family member to drive you to the dental office. You will not be allowed to drive for 12 to 24 hours following the dental implant surgery.

Tips & Warnings

• If your surgeon prescribed an antibiotic, drink only a small amount of water with the pill.
• Don't take any medications on the day of surgery without first talking to your surgeon.

Resources

• All about dental implants

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[murry]

on 12/29/2008 Sorry, but this piece doesn't get close to its title. Dental implants are complex. Here's a much more comprehensive approach, centered on safety: http://knol.google.com/k/murry-shohat/prepare-for-dental-implants-with-3d-x/2srzofgvr8kjr/4#