Preparing for Full Mouth Dental Implant Surgery

Serving Patients in Vancouver WA

Congratulations on taking this bold step toward restoring your smile. While dental implant surgery is safe and routine, it’s normal to feel a bit anxious beforehand. Many people find that having a clear idea of what to expect can ease their nerves. To help you feel prepared and confident, we’ve put together some tips and insights on preparing for your dental implant surgery.

Let’s start with a week or two before your appointment. Is there anything you can do to start getting ready?

A Few Days or Weeks Before Your Procedure

Keep up your normal brushing and flossing, and continue going about your life much as you usually do. However, by taking a few extra steps in advance, you can make your surgery day and recovery much smoother.

• Arrange Transportation: It is highly recommended to have a ride to and from your surgery appointment. If taking an oral sedative (Valium) a ride is required.
• Follow Pre-Op Eating and Drinking Guidelines: It is recommended to have a small meal prior to your surgery appointment.
• Continue Medications as Prescribed: Unless instructed otherwise by your dentist or physician, you can keep taking your regular medications. If taking a blood thinner you may be instructed to stop taking that medication 1-7 days prior to surgery depending on which blood thinner medication you are taking.
• Stock Up on Soft, Nutritious Foods: Think yogurt, apple sauce, protein shakes, and soups. Having easy-to-eat options sets you up for a comfortable recovery.
• Block Out Recovery Time: Clear your schedule for at least two days after the procedure. Taking time off from work and other obligations helps ensure you can rest, heal, and focus on feeling better.
• Set Up a Recovery Space at Home: Prepare a cozy area with extra pillows, blankets, and entertainment options, so you can relax and have everything you need within reach.

The Morning of the Dental Implant Surgery

• Brush Your Teeth: Do a normal brushing, but skip the mouthwash before your appointment.
• Follow Special Pre-Op Instructions: Any last-minute instructions from your provider such as a required medication? Make sure you follow them closely.
• Dress Comfortably: Wear comfy clothing. Skip unnecessary makeup, jewelry, or contact lenses if possible.

Dental Implant Post-Op Care

• Skip Strenuous Activities for a Week or So: Give your body time to recover. Avoid heavy lifting, high-intensity workouts, or sports.
• Take Prescriptions as Directed: If you were prescribed antibiotics or pain medication, follow the instructions to the letter. Over-the-counter pain relievers are generally acceptable for supplemental relief — just double-check with your dentist first.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water supports the healing process and helps keep you feeling your best.
• For More Information, check out our article on what to expect with dental implants.

How Long Does Dental Implant Surgery Take?

For a straightforward single implant, the procedure might take about one hour. More complex cases — for example, placing multiple implants or performing bone grafts — take longer. Your dentist will give you an estimate based on your specific treatment plan, so you know what to expect going in.

How Soon After Dental Implant Surgery Can You Eat Again?

The exact timeline depends on factors like the complexity of your procedure and how quickly you recover. Start with liquids or pureed foods and gradually reintroduce more solid textures as you heal. Most patients can begin sipping water and eating very soft foods once the numbness fades — typically within a few hours after surgery.

Prepare for Dental Implants to Change Your Life!

What happens next? Once your dental implants are in place, your body will enter a healing phase where the implant will fuse securely with the jawbone. This can take a few months. When this is complete, you’ll return to your dentist for the final placement of the replacement teeth and be amazed at how natural they look and feel.

Ready to take the next step? Call and schedule a consultation with us today.