tips for adjusting to dentures

If you've decided to undergo implant restoration for your missing teeth, it's time to start preparing for the procedure. Implant restoration is a surgical procedure, which means you'll need to take steps to avoid complication and discomfort. To help you through the process, here are some instructions you should follow.

Tell Your Dentist About Your Medical History

If you're going to have implant surgery, you need to tell your dentist everything you can about your medical history. This should include details about prior medical conditions you've dealt with, as well as current medical conditions you're being treated for. Your dentist will need to know if you suffer from high blood pressure or diabetes, or if you're taking prescription medication for any of your medical conditions. The more information your dentist knows about your medical history, the safer it will be for you.

Take Your Pre-Surgery Antibiotics

Prior to your implant surgery, your dentist may have you take a course of antibiotics. The antibiotics will help prevent post-operative infections. It's important that you take all your antibiotics as prescribed, especially if you suffer from periodontic gum disease. Without the antibiotics, the infection in your gums can pass through to your bloodstream during the surgery. However, if you're on antibiotics at the time of your surgery, the infection will be controlled, and you'll heal much faster.

Ask About Sedation for Dental Anxiety

It's not uncommon to experience some anxiety or fear prior to oral surgery. However, if your anxiety levels are getting in the way of the procedure, or making you extremely fearful, it's time to talk to your dentist about sedation. IV sedation will allow you to relax during the surgical procedure. The dentist may also be able to use sedation to put you to sleep, which will ensure a safe and relaxing experience for you.

Prepare Yourself for the Recovery

Once your implant restoration procedure is complete, you'll need to recover at home. You may be quite sore for the first few days. Before you go in for your procedure, be sure you've got everything you'll need for the recovery period. Talk to your dentist about calling your prescriptions into the pharmacy in advance. That way, you can have your pain medication on hand as soon as you get home. You should also arrange to have someone come in to help around the house for the first day or two after the procedure. It's also important that you talk to your dentist about the signs of infection, such as increased pain, foul-smelling discharge from the implant site, and fever. If you experience any of those signs during your recovery, be sure to call your dentist immediately.

Contact a dental office like Tijeras Dental Service for more information and assistance.