How to Prepare for Your Dental Implants

Dental implants have exploded in popularity over the last couple of decades, and with good reason. Implants are more comfortable and look more natural than dentures while having longevity that no other tooth replacement measures can match. They also don’t come with the eating restrictions and speech worries that accompany dentures. To top it all off, dental implant procedures have a 90%-95% success rate after 10 years; some practices go even higher. Mark Kramer, DDS boasts a 99% success rate in implant and restoration procedures. 

Dr. Kramer does almost all the work that goes into a successful procedure, but you can take some steps to help make sure you have a smooth surgery experience. 

Are you interested in getting dental implants to replace missing or damaged teeth? If so, come see the team at Mark Kramer, DDS in Tustin, California. Dr. Kramer and his team are proud of their patient-centric focus and the exceptional results their patients see. In this blog, Dr. Kramer explains who is a good candidate for dental implants, how he helps you prepare for the procedure, and what you can do leading up to the day of surgery. 

Are dental implants right for me? 

Dental implants are a good option for anyone with at least one missing tooth. Beyond that simple criterion, a person who can get dental implants typically checks all of the following boxes:

• Has a jaw bone that's reached full growth
• Has adequate bone to secure the implants 
• Has healthy oral tissues
• Has no health conditions that will affect bone healing
• Is unable or unwilling to wear dentures
• Wants to improve their speech
• Can commit several months to the process
• Doesn’t smoke tobacco

If you don’t have adequate bone structures to secure and support implants, you may be able to receive a bone graft that makes implantation possible. 

Getting a consultation

The first step toward getting dental implants is a consultation with Dr. Kramer. Dr. Kramer will assess your oral health, including a free CT scan with cone beam technology, to determine if you are eligible for implants. He will also discuss the benefits and risks of the implant procedure. You should make sure that you are ready to make a months-long commitment – after an implant is placed, the jaw bone needs time to heal and fuse with the implant. The total implant process, from the initial procedure to the placement of a tooth-shaped crown, will take three to nine months. 

Prep for the procedure

You should prepare for your implant surgery the same way you would for any other medical procedure. Depending on the type of anesthesia you’ll be under, you will need to either stop eating a few hours before the procedure or fast overnight. Dr. Kramer may prescribe you antibiotics to take in the days leading up to the procedure to increase the chance of implant success. You may also be required to use an antibacterial mouthwash. Otherwise, come ready to start your journey to a transformed smile. 

To learn more about dental implants and if you are a good candidate for them, book an appointment online or over the phone with Mark Kramer, DDS today.