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If you have missing teeth, dental implants offer a reliable, permanent solution to restore the look and function of your smile. But in order to gain these benefits, you must undergo a dental procedure that is more involved than other treatments. By practicing the following strategies, you can minimize stress and receive dental care in a calm and comfortable fashion.  

Ways to Address Anxiety Before a Dental Implant Procedure

1. Review the Process

Before receiving dental implants, it’s important to talk to your dentist about the entire process so you can know exactly what to expect. Typically, treatment is completed through several different visits. First, a titanium post is inserted into the gum tissue where the original tooth used to be. Next, you must wait several weeks for the post to fuse with the jawbone. Once the post has healed, it will be fitted with a custom dental crown that looks and feels like a natural tooth.  

2. Focus on the Benefits

If the dental implant process has you overwhelmed with anticipation and anxiety, shift your thoughts to the reasons why you’re getting the treatment in the first place.

dental implantFor example, if a missing tooth is impacting the look of your smile, you can think about how the implant will correct the problem and restore your appearance. You might also consider how implants help prevent other teeth from shifting—a process that can cause alignment and bite issues.

3. Practice Self-Care

In the days leading up to your appointment, take time to care for your mind and body. By eating healthy and getting enough rest, you’ll make sure that you have enough energy to go through the procedure with ease. It’s also a good idea to avoid stressful activities, as these may only add to the anxiety you feel in the dentist’s office. And, if you’re worried about recovery interfering with your daily life, schedule a few days off for rest and relaxation following your procedure.

4. Ask About Sedation Dentistry Options

If you’re worried about experiencing discomfort during the procedure, ask your dentist about different sedation options. For example, anesthesia may be applied to numb the area and prevent you from feeling pain. Other dentists may offer nitrous oxide, as well as IV and oral sedatives to help calm your nerves during the experience.

 

When you want to improve your oral health with dental implants, turn to Stanley R McCardle DMD | Family Dentistry for gentle, stress-free care. Backed by decades of experience and the latest dental technologies, Dr. McCardle will comfortably guide you through every step of the treatment process and address any concerns you may have. Visit this Headland, AL, dentist online to learn more about implant restoration and the other services the clinic offers—including teeth cleaning, root canals, and dentures. For appointments, call (334) 693-2112.

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