If you have a bone loss condition across the jaw, then you can often still have a dental implant secured. Depending on the extent of the loss, grafting may be necessary. While a grafting procedure may sound like a scary prospect, it is actually quite routine. While this is true, there are a few things that you can and should do to prepare for the procedure. Keep reading to learn about a few of them.

Have All Dental Appliances Checked

If you are missing several teeth and have a partial denture or another appliance secured in your mouth, then you do want to have this appliance checked over before the grafting procedure.

Bone grafts require a healing period where your own bone or donor bone will adhere to the existing bone along your jaw. Very little pressure should be placed on the graft site during the healing period. The initial period of healing takes only a few weeks, so you can place pressure on the jaw afterward. 

During the initial healing period, any appliances that fit incorrectly will often place direct pressure on the graft and cause it to fail. So, an examination of appliances is wise and an adjustment is a good idea if the fit is not correct. 

Keep in mind that your dentist may advise you to remove partial dentures for the full two week period. This is often due to the swelling involved and the placement of the appliance next to the gum tissues.

Stop Taking NSAID Pain Relievers

Certain types of NSAID pain relievers, like ibuprofen and aspirin, can cause bleeding issues. This is due to their affect on the platelets, since platelets assist with the clotting process. So, you will be asked to stop taking these medicines before the surgery. This is true of any other medicine that can contribute to bleeding problems, and this includes certain herbal supplements.

Your physician will look over your medications carefully to see which ones should likely be discontinued. To be on the safe side, the medicines likely cannot be taken for a few weeks before the grafting procedure, and also for a week or two afterward. 

Also, be prepared to eat soft foods and reduce your physical activity for a few weeks, to reduce bleeding risks. This is especially important if the graft was taken from your hip, since your hip will need to heal along with your gums and jaw.

If you want to know more about dental implants, grafting procedures, the things you need to prepare for when having a graft completed, or any other dental implant services, speak with a dental professional.