How to prepare for dental implants?

1. Understand the procedure

We have summarised the procedure through this link. However, the most important factor in preparing for your dental implant surgery is to ask questions! You should speak with your oral surgeon about the procedure, recovery and expected results. Moreover, you should spend time researching dental implants, the different options available and the recovery. These topics are covered elsewhere in our dental blog.

2. Attend a comprehensive consultation

Prior to having an implant your dentist should schedule a detailed consultation that will include a specialised X-ray scan to help map out the anatomy of your mouth. This is known as a Cone-Beam CT scan. In this consultation your dentist will also ask you questions about your medical history and any medications you take. It is important you disclose all medical problems and medications you are using so the team can help plan your treatment safely. 

3. Start establishing healthy practices for your oral health

A key factor in the success of your implant will be your oral hygiene. This does not have to wait until after the implant!

Some tips include:

• Brush your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste

• Ensure you brush the edge of your gums lightly

• Brush in small circular motions

• Brush all sides of the tooth

• Avoid smoking

• Maintain a healthy diet

4. Pre-surgery preparation

Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide specific instructions to follow in the days leading up to your surgery. This might include medication management and reducing smoking.

Medication Management: You may need to adjust your current medications or take prescribed antibiotics to prevent infection.

No Smoking: If you smoke, try to quit or reduce smoking before the procedure, as smoking can interfere with healing.

5. Prepare for sedation

Some dentists offer intravenous sedation during your surgery. This is also known as ‘Twilight Sleep Sedation’, and allows you to relax fully throughout the surgery whilst remaining conscious. You will not be ‘put to sleep’ but you will be calm & relaxed throughout the surgery, and in most cases, you will have no memory of the surgery. 

If you are having intravenous sedation, there is some preparation that is required. Your dentist should make this clear, however typically it involves:

• You should not drive after sedation, so it is important you make arrangements to get home safely following the procedure.

• You must bring a suitable escort to the procedure to take you home and look after you for the rest of the day 

• You may feel groggy and sleepy for up to 24 hours after surgery

6. Stay calm

It’s natural to feel a bit anxious before surgery, but keeping a positive mindset can help. Dental implants are a very common procedure, with high success rates.

Tips:

Relaxation Techniques: Practise deep breathing or meditation to help manage any pre-surgery nerves.

Support System: Talk to friends or family who have had dental implants for reassurance and support.

This blog walked through how to prepare for dental implants. Preparing for a dental implant is about more than just the day of surgery—it’s about setting yourself up for a successful, stress-free experience. By understanding the process, maintaining good oral health, and planning ahead, you can approach your procedure with confidence and look forward to a beautiful, lasting smile.

If you have any questions or need more personalised advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dental care team. They’re there to support you every step of the way.