So, you’ve finally decided to go for it and have All-on-4 dental implants placed to restore function and shine to your smile. Congratulations! All of us at Virginia Oral, Facial & Implant Surgery are excited for you! All-on-4 dental implants are one of the best, and most natural-looking tooth replacement systems available to Northern Virginia men and women on the market today. But, as you already know, having them placed requires oral surgery and sedation. That’s why we’re here with 5 tips to help you prepare for your dental implant surgery.
- Make Sure You Ask Questions
When you visit with Dr. Gocke at his Northern Virginia clinic, be sure to ask every single question you have so that you fully understand the details of your All-on-4 dental implant surgery. Dr. Gocke wants all of his patients to be well-informed before their procedure, which is why he allows ample time to discuss everything with you during your appointment. And don’t worry – if you have additional questions when you get home, our friendly staff is just a phone call away.
2. Enlist Help From Friends Or Family
This is a big one. Not only will you need someone to drive you to your appointment, sit in the waiting room during your procedure, and be ready to drive you home after your All-on-4 dental implants have been placed, but you will also need some help at home. It won’t be for long but having friends or family to take care of you, your kids, cook a few meals, and keep the house tidy will make all the difference in the world while you’re recovering for your procedure.
3. Fast
A day or so before your All-on-4 dental implant surgery, one of our nurses will call to explain all of your pre-op dos and don’ts. This will include information on how long you should fast before your surgery. Make sure you heed their instructions. If you choose to eat or drink prior to your procedure, you could put your health at risk, and your appointment will have to be rescheduled. However, we should note that there are some exceptions. If you require daily medications, Dr. Gocke may clear you to take them with a small sip of water. Be sure to inform him during your consultation of any and all medications you are taking so he can best know how to create a safe treatment plan.
4. Wear The Right Clothes
That might sound strange, but wearing the right clothes to your All-on-4 dental implants surgery is important. Especially if you are receiving IV sedation, Northern Virginia men and women should wear short-sleeve and loose-fitting clothes to their appointment. This will ensure your comfort and allow our staff the access they need to insert your IV.
5. Stock Up On The Right Foods At Home
This is a tip many people forget about. Dr. Gocke recommends that his Northern Virginia All-on-4 patients make sure that their kitchen is stocked with all the right post-op foods BEFORE coming in for surgery. This includes soft foods and liquids. When Dr. Gocke releases you to return home after your procedure, you won’t be able to chew food at your surgical sites. You will need to avoid eating any foods that are crunchy or hard for 3-4 months after your implants have been placed.
You’re Ready!
Now that you’re armed with a few tips to help prepare you for your All-on-4 dental implant surgery, start getting things into place now.
If you have any other questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to call Dr. Gocke at his Northern Virginia office today at (703) 388-2805.
