News from ProDentures
Your Source for Affordable Partial & New Dentures in Houston, Texas
If you have a missing tooth or two, a dental implant procedure from a reputable Houston dentist may be the best option for you. After all, dental implants are renowned for being able to look, function, and feel just like natural teeth.
Furthermore, dental implants are known to help prevent bone loss along the jaw, helping you avoid “sunken cheeks” and wrinkles.
Considering how effective dental implants are as replacement teeth, it’s only natural that you want the procedure to go as smoothly.
In general, dental implant procedures have a very high success rate, but there are definitely several steps you should take prior to getting dental implants at a trusted elder dental practice like ProDentures.
Some of these steps include:
Now is a Great Time to Quit Drinking or Smoking
During the weeks leading up to the procedure is a great time to quit smoking. Cigarettes are known to inhibit the production of white blood cells, which may increase the risk of the site of the procedure becoming infected.
On the other hand, alcohol consumption diminishes the body’s ability to properly heal itself. This means it may take longer for the area surround the implant to properly close and heal. It is best to avoid drinking alcohol in any amount a week before and a week after getting dental implants.
Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene
Oral health plays a large role in determining whether you may proceed with dental implants or not. If you have already been cleared for the procedure, make sure you keep up with proper oral hygiene.
Three weeks is more than enough time for gum issues to arise, which can easily push back the date of the procedure or even cause an infection later on. Remember to brush your teeth and floss before every meal. In addition, rinsing twice a day with mouthwash will help keep your mouth free of dangerous bacteria.
List Any and All Medication that You are Currently Taking
It is common for people to be taking medication or supplements these days. Take note, however, that you may need to stop taking certain medication in the days leading up to dental implant surgery.
Be sure to inform your dentist about any and all medication and/or supplements (both prescription and over the counter) you may be taking. Some medication may lead to conflicts or complications.
An experienced dental implant dentist should be able to identify which ones you need to hold off taking and which ones you can continue to take.
Discuss Sedation Options with Your Dentist
Lastly, take the time to discuss sedation options with your dentist beforehand.
In most cases, dental implant surgery only requires the use of local anesthesia. However, people who suffer from dental anxiety may prefer to be put under general anesthesia.
Do not hesitate to discuss this with your dentist to ensure the procedure itself goes well and that you are comfortable with the sedation method used.
Now that you know the steps to take prior to a dental implant procedure, make sure to carry out all the aforementioned steps as they can define the success of your procedure.
With the guidance of an experienced dental implant dentist like Dr. Paul Searby or Dr. Ron Evans at ProDentures, you’ll have a better chance at restoring your oral health and maintaining a beautiful smile.
Sources:
Dental Implants, WebMD.com
Who Is An Implant Candidate?, Colgate.com