Nowadays, people suffering from tooth loss avail of dental implants since it offers a more comfortable, convenient, and overall favorable dental restoration experience. Instead of wearing a removable appliance, which tends to cause more discomfort than a solution—in the long run—dental implant restorations sit securely over the jawbone. To make this possible, implant posts made of titanium are surgically inserted into the jawbone to hold the prosthesis in place.
However, despite the advantages of dental implants, some people are still quite hesitant to give it a go because of the processes involved, like the surgical insertion of posts. So, to help patients prepare themselves better during the procedure, here is a list of tips we at Family Dental Care prepared.
Undergo a comprehensive dental examination
This step is necessary for dentists to find out if a particular patient is a good candidate for dental implants. During this, the dentist will also get to know some important information for them to formulate a treatment plan. To properly assess the patient, they will be asked to undergo an x-ray, as well as a visual exam. Their medical records will also be checked by the dentist to guarantee that there won’t be any issues. Some of the factors that will be taken into consideration when placing dental implants include the following:
- Allergic reactions to anesthesia and other dental materials used so the dentist may look for alternatives
- A weakened immune system, so the dentist can provide antibiotics before and after
- Medications taken that may interact with anesthetics or affect the dental implant procedure to adjust the treatment plan
- State of the jawbone, so the dentist may offer additional dental work
- The patient’s health, if they are healthy enough, the dentist may push through with the placement of implant post and abutments
Take antibiotics (if necessary)
There are cases when a patient may need to take immunosuppressant drugs to prevent their body from attacking the implant posts. Before and after the dental implant procedure, patients should take antibiotics to serve as a substitute for the immune system.
Prepare the body
A patient can be under general anesthesia during the placement of dental implants, so they will be asked to fast for at least 12 hours before the scheduled appointment. It is also best to wear loose and comfortable clothes to make the procedure go as smoothly as possible.
Have the jaw prepared
In cases when the patient’s jaw cannot support the implant posts properly, the dentist will ask the patient to undergo one of the following: bone graft, smooth or reshape the jaw, extraction of impacted teeth, and removal of some bone from the jaw. As soon as the jaw is healed, the dentist can then push through with the implant procedure.
Schedule time off and prepare for aftercare
After the procedure, it is common for patients to experience swelling and soreness, so they should get some rest to heal. Asking a time off from work or school is ideal and making preparations like:
- Taking a break from exercise
- Stocking up on pain medications and soft foods
- Take time off from social interactions
- Have a light schedule one week following the procedure
- Arrange childcare and help for the house chores
Aside from the tips listed above, it is also best to ask the dentist for some tips to make the procedure feel more comfortable by being prepared.
If you think that you are ready enough to have your teeth replaced with Dental Implants in Beaverton, OR, feel free to call or visit us at Family Dental Care! We are located at 8070 SW Hall Blvd. #200, Beaverton, OR 97008.