Things You May Be Asked To Do To Prepare For A Dental Implant Procedure

If you are planning to receive one or more dental implants, you may be excited about the prospect of having your teeth restored. However, you may not know that there are a few things that you may need to do to prepare for the procedure. 

Here are several things that you may be asked to do as you get ready for a dental implant restoration.

Take Antibiotics

Your dentist may want antibiotics in your system before the implant is placed. Although your risk of an infection may not be high, an oral infection can prevent a dental implant wound from healing properly. This is important because in order for a dental implant to remain secure in the mouth, the tissues that surround the implant, including the bone and gums, must heal correctly. 

Oral antibiotics may be provided before the procedure. In addition, after the procedure, you may be required to take antibiotics and rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash.

Restore Your Gum Health

Your dentist will want your gums to be in their healthiest state when a dental implant procedure is performed. Thus, if you display signs of gum disease before the procedure, the dentist may delay the surgery until your gums are in better health.

To restore your gums, you should brush and floss regularly. In addition, you should consider using an oral irrigator and rinsing with an antimicrobial mouth rinse daily.

Have a Bone Grafting Procedure

If your jawbone has decreased in size due to an infection, tooth loss or other factors, there may not be enough bone material left to support a traditional implant. To increase the density of your jawbone, the dentist may suggest a bone grafting procedure.

During a bone grafting procedure, bone material is added to your existing bone to incite bone growth. The stimulating bone is eventually replaced by the new bone that develops.

Stop Smoking

Smoking can prevent an implant wound from healing. The habit may decrease your blood oxygen levels and reduce the flow of blood to the wound. In addition, smoking irritates the soft tissues of the mouth.

Before performing a dental implant procedure, your dentist may ask you to stop smoking. If you need assistance breaking the habit, he or she may prescribe nicotine supplements, such as gum or patches, to quell the desire to smoke. 

For more information about preparing for a dental implant, schedule a consultation with an implant dentist at an office like Gallery Dental in your local area.