Dental Implants: Medically-Related Questions
If you’re considering dental implants, you probably have plenty of medically-related questions, including questions about how your overall health will affect the outcome, how medications will be influenced by implant procedures, and questions regarding the procedure itself.
Our clinical team of highly-trained implant specialists and support team members will address any concerns you may have during your dental implants consultation. In addition to medically-related questions, below you’ll find answers about insurance issues, pre-operative care, post-operative care, and other related topics.
Be sure to fully discuss your specific case with your primary doctor as well as with our implant specialists to ensure you feel comfortable before a dental implant procedure.
Pre-Surgical Questions
Should I avoid any medications and/or vitamins prior to surgery? If so, for how long?It’s important to discuss all your medications and supplements with your surgeon prior to treatment. We’ll work with your physician to safely manage your medications.
Are there food and drink restrictions prior to surgery?
If you’ll be sedated for the procedure, do not consume anything including water for six to eight hours prior unless instructed differently. Necessary medications may be taken with a sip of water prior to sedation.
Dental Implant Surgery Questions
What sedation and anesthesia will be used, and how will it be managed?
Our surgeon will discuss your sedation and anesthesia options, and our staff will provide advanced care with minimal discomfort and anxiety.
Will vital signs be monitored?
Yes, the implant surgeon and surgical assistants will continuously monitor vital signs throughout the procedure.
What is the estimated length of surgery?
Your implant consultant will review your treatment time with you in detail prior to the procedure.
Is there much blood loss?
Blood loss from dental implant surgery is generally very minimal, even if you are taking anticoagulants (blood thinners).
How many implants has Dental Associates placed?
Our clinicians have placed thousands of implants successfully. All our dental implant specialists have received additional training and are highly-qualified to place implants, so you can have peace of mind you’ll be in good hands.
Will antibiotics be prescribed following surgery?
We commonly prescribe antibiotics such as amoxicillin or clindamycin. Post-operative instructions about antibiotics will vary depending on your specific needs.
Dental Implant Surgery Recovery
How much time will I miss from work?
Depending on the extent of the procedure, type of sedation, and your occupation, you’ll need anywhere from a few hours to a few days before returning to work.
Can I expect any facial bruising?
Bruising is not common after a dental implant procedure. Our specialists will give you post-operative instructions, including cold compresses to reduce swelling and inflammation, should you experience any.
When can I resume fluid intake and when can I start to eat soft food again?
After a dental implant procedure, you may drink clear liquids immediately. Our specialist will discuss your recommended diet based on the nature of your surgery.
When will my post-surgical follow-up appointment be?
We typically like to see our patients within 7-10 days following surgery. Our treatment and scheduling coordinators will discuss your post-operative care and follow up visits, and keep you informed of your appointments.
General Dental Implant Questions
What type of cleaning is required after an implant is placed?
Dental implants should be treated just like natural teeth with brushing and flossing every day. Our team of specialists and dental hygienists will review oral hygiene instructions with you and will recommend appropriate oral hygiene treatment to keep your implants in optimal shape for years to come.
Are there any additional costs/fees to expect?
All fees will be discussed prior to surgery during the consultation appointment.
