Preparing for the installation of your cosmetic dental implants is a multi-step process. From the purchase of special items to consultations with your dentist, getting ready for surgery involves anticipating all the likely outcomes and working to ensure that the days after the surgery are as comfortable and stress-free as possible. These tips will help to prepare for your upcoming dental procedure.   

Buy Soft Foods

You'll be eating soft foods in the first few days after your surgery, and more if your dentist says it's appropriate. Stock up on items like:

• Gelatin
• Pudding
• Applesauce
• Yogurt
• Mashed potatoes
• Avocado

Buy enough soft food for the first several days immediately following the procedure or procedures. Plan to touch base with your dentist after the surgery to find when you can go back to eating solid foods. 

Get Time Off Work

Cosmetic dental implant surgery is often done in two stages (root installation, then crown installation) with time in between stages to allow the gums and bone to heal. Your dentist will be the one to tell you when each stage will occur. Plan to take time off of work in the day following each step. Give your employer as much notice as possible to help ensure that the time off is granted. 

Ask All Your Questions

You may have many questions for your dentist before the procedure takes place. Write down all your questions in advance and bring them to your dentist to find out the answers all at once. Common questions may include:

• What are the potential side effects of the surgery?
• Is the surgery painful?
• How long can I expect any surgery-related discomfort to continue when the procedure is over?
• Should I take special care to protect my implant between stages?
• Are there any activities I will be prohibited from doing once the implant is in place?

Disclose Medicinal Allergies

Tell your dentist about any medicinal allergies before the surgery begins. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics after the procedure to help with infection, and he or she will need to know about any intolerance you have to available medicines. 

Make Arrangements for a Ride

You may be placed under general anesthesia during your surgery. If this is the case, you'll need to make arrangements for someone to give you a ride back to your home.

For more information about ways to prepare for your upcoming cosmetic dental implant surgery, speak with a cosmetic dentist, such as one from Belgrade Dental Associates.