Advanced Prep for Dental Implant Procedures

There are a number of oral procedures where a bit of preparation ahead of time can make a huge difference to the overall success of the procedure, and any dental implant you’re considering is a great example here. Dental implants are a common, effective choice for replacing missing teeth or otherwise enhancing your smile, providing a lasting solution that improves both function and aesthetic – and a few simple prep tips will help optimize these results. 

At Bynum Aesthetic Dentistry, we’re proud to offer a huge range of cosmetic and restorative dentistry procedures to patients around Simpsonville, SC and nearby areas, including dental implants, single tooth implants and more. Here are some of the general preparations that should be carried out as you get set for a dental implant appointment, plus why they’re important. 

Consultation With Dental Professional

First and foremost, it’s vital to meet with your dentist and discuss your dental implant needs prior to the procedure. This will allow you to ask any questions or address any concerns you may have, as well as give your dentist a chance to evaluate your oral health and determine if implants are the best option for you. 

This step is important for many reasons, but an overarching theme is the fact that dental implant needs vary from person to person. While some patients may be great candidates for implants, others may require additional treatments or procedures before the implant can be successfully placed. By meeting with your dentist beforehand, you’ll have a better understanding of what to expect and can plan accordingly.

Laying Out Treatment Plan

There are also many cases where it makes sense for a dentist to put together a treatment plan before the dental implant procedure itself. This is especially true if there are other dental issues that need to be addressed, such as gum disease or bone loss in the jaw. By creating a comprehensive treatment plan, your dentist can ensure that all necessary steps are taken to optimize the success of your dental implant.

For instance, you may be not only receiving a dental implant to replace a missing tooth, but you may also need a bone graft in order to strengthen the jawbone and allow for proper placement of the implant. You may also have to address prior dental issues first.

Addressing Existing Dental Issues

Speaking of prior dental issues, here are a couple examples of types that will often need to be remedied before a dental implant procedure can be carried out:

• Gum disease: If you have periodontal disease, it will need to be treated and brought under control before the dental implant can be placed. This is because gum disease can compromise your overall oral health and make it difficult for the implant to heal properly.

• Jawbone deterioration: If you’ve been missing a tooth for an extended period of time, there’s a good chance that some amount of jawbone deterioration has occurred in that area. In this case, a bone graft will be necessary to build up the jawbone and create a solid base for the implant.

• Tooth extraction need: If you have a damaged tooth that needs to be extracted before the implant can be placed, your dentist will arrange for this prior to the implant procedure.

X-Rays or Imaging for Placement

Another key part of the preparation process for any dental implant is taking X-rays or other imaging of your mouth and jaw. This will help the dentist determine exactly where to place the implant, as well as what type of implant will work best in your specific scenario.

During this process, the dentist will evaluate factors like the thickness and density of your jawbone at the implant site, as well as the location of any nerves or other structures that could impact placement. With this information in hand, your dentist can make sure to place the implant in a way that minimizes risk and maximizes success.

Possible Lifestyle Changes

Depending on your specific situation, there may be some lifestyle changes you’ll need to make in the weeks leading up to your dental implant procedure. For instance, if you’re a smoker, you may be asked to quit at least temporarily prior to the procedure. This is because smoking can significantly slow down the healing process and increase risk of complications such as infection.

In addition, certain medications or health conditions may also need to be taken into account. Make sure to discuss these with your dentist during your consultation and follow any instructions given.

Preparing for a dental implant procedure involves meeting with your dentist beforehand, creating a treatment plan if necessary, addressing any existing dental issues, taking X-rays or other imaging, and possibly making lifestyle changes. By following these steps and working closely with your dentist, you can ensure the best possible outcome for your dental implant. Keep in mind that every patient is different, so be sure to follow any personalized instructions given by your dentist to optimize your oral health and achieve a beautiful, confident smile. 

So why wait? Schedule a consultation with Bynum Aesthetic Dentistry today and start planning for your dental implant procedure. Our experienced team will help guide you through the process and provide personalized care to ensure a successful outcome for patients around Simpsonville, SC and nearby areas. Contact us today to learn more!