The placement of a dental implant is a commonly performed oral surgery procedure today. For it to proceed under the best conditions, thorough preparation beforehand is essential, both from a medical and personal standpoint. Here’s what you need to know before starting this stage.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium or ceramic screw inserted into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. It then supports a fixed prosthesis such as a crown or a bridge.
Its placement is based on a precise evaluation of the patient’s oral and general health.
Pre-Implant Consultation: A Key Step
Before any procedure, a complete assessment is necessary. This generally includes:
A clinical examination of the mouth (teeth, gums, occlusion)
A 3D scan (Cone Beam) to assess bone volume
A medical questionnaire to identify any contraindications
The practitioner also evaluates the need to perform a bone graft if there is insufficient bone to accommodate an implant.
Preparing Your Body and Oral Hygiene
Good hygiene is essential
Thorough brushing, the use of dental floss or interdental brushes helps limit gingival inflammation. In the presence of plaque or tartar, a professional scaling may be recommended beforehand.
Avoiding Risk Factors
Smoking, untreated periodontal diseases, or certain poorly controlled medical conditions (diabetes, cardiovascular diseases) can compromise implant success. Therapeutic adjustments may be considered with your dental surgeon or general practitioner.
Adjusting Your Daily Routine Before the Procedure
Plan for a Rest Period
Even if the procedure is performed under local anesthesia, a period of relative rest is often recommended after surgery. It is therefore advisable to plan for a day without obligations after the placement.
Adjusting Your Diet
In the days following the procedure, a soft diet (purees, soups, yogurts) is recommended to avoid pain and protect the operated area.
Frequently Asked Questions Before Implant Placement
Is it painful?
The surgery is performed under local anesthesia, and postoperative discomfort is generally well controlled with pain medication. Some discomfort or slight swelling may occur.
How long between the implant and the permanent tooth?
Depending on the case, loading can be immediate or delayed by several weeks (the time required for the implant’s osseointegration into the bone). The practitioner will inform you of this during treatment planning.
Conclusion: Tailored Planning
Each implant project is unique. Dr. Laurent SERS, in Cannes, welcomes you to establish a personalized treatment plan, based on your expectations and oral health. The goal is to place an implant under the best conditions, with complete safety.
