Scheduling a dental implant procedure can be a life-changing moment. To ensure patients are completely prepared for the appointment, they should get a number of things ready beforehand. The following is a list of tasks the patient might want to have ready before the big day.
1. Prepare Meals
Patients should make sure they have plenty of soft, mushy foods ready to go. After getting dental implants placed, they may not feel like cooking, so it can be helpful to have a number of meals already prepared. Meals that are nutritious and easy to eat include:
- Soups, especially with pureed vegetables.
- Smoothies made with fresh fruit.
- Protein shakes.
- Mashed potatoes and gravy.
- Jell-O, pudding, and ice cream.
2. Create a Resting Area
Patients should take plenty of time to rest after their procedure, and having a comfortable space in which to do so can facilitate recovery. Fresh sheets, lots of pillows, and plenty of loungewear are essential for feeling relaxed the day after the procedure. Having books to read, TV or movies to watch, or music to listen to can also help keep the mind occupied.
3. Find a Ride
If the patient is having oral or IV sedation during their appointment, they will be too groggy to drive themselves home, so they will need a friend or family member to come get them. It is a good idea to have this person escort the patient inside their home to make sure they have everything they need for the rest of the day.
4. Take Some Time off Work
It is recommended to schedule at least three days off work — one for the procedure itself, as well as two days afterward to rest. While patients will not be on bed rest or in extreme pain, they may find it irksome to have to go to work the day after their dental implants have been placed.
5. Follow Your Medication Regimen
For some patients, we may prescribe an antibiotic before the procedure. This gives the patient extra protection against infection, especially if they have underlying medical conditions. This course of antibiotics must be taken according to the instructions; not taking it correctly could cause them to be ineffective.
Patients may also need to adjust other medications they are taking in the week leading up to the procedure. We will provide each patient with personalized instructions in this regard.
Prepare Yourself for a Successful Procedure
Dental implants have an extremely high success rate, so there is no need for stress or worry. If you are ready to schedule your own dental implant procedure, call our Salt Lake and Utah County area office at (801) 446-4428 to learn more.
