Dental implants are a great solution to replace missing teeth or to help improve the look of your smile. The process can also restore damaged teeth and preserve any deterioration in your jawbone. However, it's important to ensure that you are ready for your dental implant surgery once the procedure is scheduled. Here are 3 things you should do beforehand to be completely prepared for the day of your surgery.

1) Plan ahead for recovery

While dental implant surgery is not as invasive as other medical procedures, you will still likely experience some pain and swelling afterward. The best thing you can do to relieve these effects is to take your prescribed medication and get enough rest once the surgery is over. To ensure that your recovery period is successful, you'll need to take some steps ahead of time to guarantee that you'll be able to effectively recuperate. Make sure that you have someone available to drive you home after the surgery is completed, especially if you will be administered IV sedation. Plan some meals and snacks that only include soft foods for the 24 hours post-surgery, such as soups, pasta, and smoothies. Avoid exercise for a day or two, and re-schedule any important events for the week following your surgery. You may be able to return to work or school a few days after the surgery, but it's still a good idea to clear your calendar for the week in case you're not feeling up to doing anything strenuous.

2) Mentally prepare for the process

As with any surgery, you should prepare yourself mentally so that you feel less stressed when the procedure day arrives. Depending on the extent of your individual tooth restoration, there could be a series of follow-up visits necessary. This includes tooth extraction, artificial root creation, and crown placement, with healing time between each phase. Understanding how many times you'll need to return to your dentist's office after dental implant surgery can help manage your expectations. Be sure to ask your dentist any questions you may have about what your specific treatment plan will entail. Do something fun the day before to calm your nerves regarding the surgery, and get a good night's sleep. All of these steps will ease your mind prior to the surgery.

3) Follow all of your pre-operative instructions

Your dentist will give you a list of things that you'll need to do before your surgery. You may be asked to stop eating or drinking anything other than water for up to 8 hours ahead of your procedure. Brush your teeth adequately, and try to quit smoking as far in advance of your surgery as you can. Find loose-fitting clothing that will be comfortable to wear. No matter what pre-op requirements you receive, following these instructions will help you avoid any major complications.

Although dental implant surgery might seem a bit frightening, these preparation tips can remove some of your fear. In the end, the benefits of your tooth replacement will make the procedure worthwhile. 

To learn more about dental implants, reach out to a local dentist.