Pre-Op Instructions - Bozeman, MT
Essential steps to take before dental implant surgery for a safe procedure and seamless recovery.
Essential Steps to Take Before Dental Implant Surgery
Before your first consultation at Gallatin Valley Surgical Arts, we encourage you to learn how to prepare for dental implant surgery so you can arrive with any additional questions. After board-certified oral surgeon Dr. Brenda Hall determines you qualify for implants, our team will explain every step involved and discuss how to prepare.
These are general guidelines — always follow the personalized instructions Dr. Hall provides for your specific procedure and sedation.
Medical History & Medications
Provide a complete list of all medications and supplements, and tell us about any medical conditions. Blood thinners may need to be adjusted or discontinued to reduce bleeding risk, and SSRIs can affect healing. Special precautions apply if you have uncontrolled diabetes, an autoimmune disorder, cardiovascular disease, or osteoporosis.
Fasting Guidelines
With IV sedation, do not eat or drink for 6–8 hours before surgery, since sedation impairs your protective reflexes. A small sip of water to take essential medication may be allowed. With local anesthesia only, a light meal is permitted up to 2 hours before surgery.
Tobacco & Alcohol Use
Avoid alcohol during the week of surgery, as it can cause bleeding complications. Smoking and chewing tobacco raise the risk of peri-implantitis and impair healing — stop as far ahead as possible, and at minimum 72 hours before surgery.
Hygiene & Oral Care
A clean mouth lowers the risk of post-surgical infection. Brush and floss before your appointment, and Dr. Hall may recommend an antibacterial mouthwash for a few days beforehand to reduce harmful bacteria.
What to Wear & Bring
Wear loose, comfortable clothing; leave jewelry at home; and skip makeup, lotion, lip balm, and perfume. Bring eyeglasses instead of contact lenses. Discuss any medical devices (e.g., CPAP) with us beforehand. If you receive sedation, a designated adult must drive you home — effects can linger up to 24 hours.
Medication & Pain Management
Over-the-counter pain medication is often sufficient, though we may prescribe something stronger to pick up before surgery should you need it. Antibiotics generally are not taken before surgery unless there are exceptional circumstances.
Lifestyle & Diet Adjustments
Stock up on soft, cold foods, ice packs, and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Plan to eat a soft diet afterward and avoid heavy exercise for 24–48 hours. For full-arch cases, occlusal overload is a leading cause of implant failure, so soft, cold foods are especially important early on.
What to Expect the Day of Surgery
When you arrive, Dr. Hall reviews your treatment plan and answers any questions. If you're receiving IV sedation, it's administered once you're comfortable in the operative suite, with effects starting almost immediately. Dr. Hall places the implants in their predetermined sites, closes the incisions with sutures or a laser, and cleans and dresses the area. You'll stay in recovery until you're ready to be driven home by a responsible adult.
Experience a Safely Restored Implant Smile
Schedule a visit to start your journey with our skilled, caring team.