Are you planning to receive dental implants in downtown Los Angeles? You have an exciting and rewarding journey ahead of you. Your dentist will advise you every step of the way, from your consultation until your new smile is in place. One part of the implant process that many people feel a bit nervous about is the surgery wherein the prosthetic tooth roots get placed beneath the gums. But there is no reason to worry! Let’s talk about some steps you can take to make your dental implant surgery day as comfortable and easy as possible.

Communicate with Your Dentist

While you are preparing for your surgery, make a list of any questions you have, and bring that list with you to one of your pre-op appointments. Your dentist will be more than happy to address any concerns you have and give you personalized advice to make your procedure a success.

Follow Pre-Op Instructions

Your dentist or oral surgeon will also provide you with detailed pre-operative instructions. For example, you may strongly be encouraged to stop smoking prior to your surgery. You may also have to fast in the hours leading up to your appointment, especially if you will be under any type of powerful anesthesia.

Prepare Some Meals

It is normal for patients to feel quite tired after surgery, especially if they were sedated for the procedure. It is unlikely that you will feel like taking the time to prepare your meals. Therefore, you should get some simple foods ready before your surgery. Stock up on soft foods as well as ingredients that are easy to turn into smoothies. Some things that are easy to eat after oral surgery include brothy soups, nutritional drinks like Ensure, applesauce, and even ice cream.

Arrange for a Ride

The sedation used during dental implant surgery is usually quite powerful, and you can expect its effects to linger for at least several hours after your appointment. In the interests of safety, you must arrange for someone to drive you to and from your appointment.

Get Comfy

On the day of your surgery, skip the makeup and jewelry. The makeup may rub off on your dental team, and bulky jewelry might get in the way. You should also dress comfortably in relatively loose clothes. Snug jeans or a restrictive top are the last things you want to worry about on the day of your surgery.

Clear Your Schedule

The implant surgery make take just a few hours, but you should not plan on a lot of other activities that day. Instead, take the day to rest. Most patients are able to return to work or school within one to two days of their procedure.

Are you going to have dental implant surgery soon? The above tips can make your big day go as smoothly as possible.

About the Author

Dr. Adam Geach is a highly trained general dentist and prosthodontist in downtown Los Angeles. He enjoys helping patients achieve renewed confidence and improved oral health via dental implant treatments. To learn more about Dr. Geach or to ask questions about what you can expect from the dental implant process, contact our office at 213-810-3368.