Dental implant procedures have become increasingly popular. Dentists often suggest dental implants because of their aesthetic and functional qualities.

Implant-based restorations offer natural-looking results that remain stable in the mouth. As a result, an implant patient can enjoy a beautiful smile and eat a wide variety of foods.

Unlike other tooth-replacement devices, dental implants don't rest at the gum line. Instead, the devices are inserted into the jawbone, where they assimilate with the bone tissue.

After a dentist places a dental implant, the bone cells multiply around the device, filling any gaps between the implant and the jawbone. As osseointegration occurs, the implant becomes increasingly stable, allowing it to handle the same amount of chewing pressure as a natural tooth.

Osseointegration takes place over the course of several months following the implantation procedure. Once this healing process is complete, the dentist can add an abutment to the implant to connect the device to a crown, bridge, or denture.

If you are considering an implant, there are several precautions you should take before your scheduled surgery. Here are a few of them.

Skip the Blood Thinners

Although implant surgery is minor enough to take place in your dentist's office, the procedure still involves an incision into the gingival tissues. Although there is typically some bleeding involved, it is not usually excessive.

However, if you are taking blood thinners, the medications can hinder clot formation. As a result, your gums may bleed more heavily. To prevent excessive bleeding, your dentist may ask you to refrain from taking blood thinners, including aspirin, immediately prior to your implant surgery.

Avoid Tobacco

Some people habitually smoke or chew tobacco. Smoking can reduce the amount of oxygen in the blood, which can delay the healing process of the implant wound. Likewise, chewing tobacco includes chemical irritants that may inflame the gum tissues.

When the soft tissues around a dental implant become inflamed, they can impair osseointegration. The gum disease that results from the inflammation is called Periimplantitis.

Control Your Blood Sugar

People who are diabetic may require medication, diet, and exercise to control their blood sugar. Uncontrolled blood sugar can interfere with the healing of an implant wound. Thus, it is important to ensure that your blood sugar is stable and within a normal range during the period leading up to and following the placement of your implant.

To learn more about dental implants and how to prepare for implant surgery, schedule a consultation with a dentist in your local area.