What should I expect on the day of my implant surgery?

Hi there! Greetings to you. On the day of your implant surgery, it’s best to arrive a bit earlier than your appointment time. This extra time will let you complete any necessary paperwork without feeling rushed. You’ll also get to have a final chat with Dr. Athirah, where you can ask any last-minute questions and confirm the treatment plan. Having a family member or a friend with you is always a good idea for a bit of moral support and to help you get home safely afterward.

The implant surgery itself usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the situation’s complexity. You’ll be made as comfortable as possible with local anesthesia to make sure the area is numb, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. If you’re feeling a bit anxious, don’t worry! Many places offer sedation options to help keep you relaxed.

After the procedure, it’s quite normal to have some swelling or bruising around the implant site. This can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief medications, similar to what you might take for a headache. It’s important to understand that these symptoms are part of the healing process and should ease up after a few days. Dr. Athirah will guide you on how to care for the area and what’s typical to feel as your mouth heals.

In terms of recovery, you might find that you can get back to your usual activities within just a few days. However, it’s crucial during the initial healing phase to avoid hard or crunchy foods — go for soft, manageable meals instead. Be sure to follow the oral care instructions given, including gently rinsing your mouth with saltwater to promote healing.

Finally, do not skip those follow-up appointments with Dr. Athirah. They are very important to make sure everything is healing as it should and that the implant is becoming one with your bone. Always feel free to reach out to Dr. Athirah if you have any concerns or questions along the way. It’s much better to address something early if it feels off. Take care, and best of luck with your implant!