When your dentist tells you that you need dental implants in Mountlake Terrace, it’s natural to feel a little anxious and apprehensive. The closer you get to your procedure, the more nervous you may feel. The good news is you can prepare.
There are steps that you need to take to reduce your anxiety. Other steps will help to ensure the procedure goes as planned and will help to limit problems afterward. Here’s what you need to do to prepare for getting dental implants.
Schedule a Consultation with Your Oral Surgeon
When you find out you need dental implants in Mountlake Terrace, you’re sure you have a lot of questions. Your dentist or oral surgeon—depending on who is doing the procedure—will be able to answer all of your questions. They’ll take X-rays, look at your medical history, and talk you through everything that is going to happen.
This process is essential, and not just for you. The dentist will need to look for any potential issues that could affect the surgery itself or the healing afterward. They’ll also need to consider the type of implant being used, which is something that will be discussed with you.
Ask the Questions That You Have
Go into the consultation with some questions. The dentist or oral surgeon will want to make sure you’re ready for this, and that you understand what is going on. After all, part of reducing anxiety is understanding the process.
There are no questions too stupid at this point. You can ask about the surgery, the recovery process, and even ant aftercare needs that you have. Write them down as you think about them so you can ask on the day. If you have questions afterward, you can call to find out.
Look Over and Follow the Pre-Operative Instructions
You’ll be given a list of instructions to follow before you get your dental implants in Mountlake Terrace. It’s essential that you follow them. Some of them will be in regards to your diet, while others are about medications to take or not to take.
The aim of the instructions is to minimize risks. This will help you have a smoother ride in the chair and in the recovery process. If you are on medications that are on the list to avoid, talk to your dentist to discuss potential complications and steps that your dentist and doctor will both recommend.
Plan for the Post-Procedure Care
You will need someone to drive you home after your procedure. Usually, you’ll be disoriented from the sedation that you’re given. It could also be worth having a friend to help you for the first couple of days afterward. A support system will help recovery much easier.
You will know yourself, though. There are chances that you’ve had surgeries in the past. Oral surgery is different in the way that it affects the ability to eat and drink afterward, though, so keep that in mind.
Go into the procedure for your dental implants in Mountlake Terrace with a positive attitude. You’ll be surprised by how much that helps to minimize risks afterward.
