Stop Tooth Pain in its Tracks

Posted on: 13 January 2016

You might think you don't need to prepare for your upcoming dental implant procedure. While this procedure is not too invasive, there are a few things to consider to help you prepare for your dental implant. The following tips will help enlighten you about these preparations.

1. Help Your Body With Immune-Boosters

Your dentist probably went through some of the basic preparations, like staying away from medications that would interfere with the procedure. But one thing that you should consider adding to your prep regimen is immune-boosters that might help prevent infections. This is important because your dentist may need to make some incisions in your mouth, meaning that your body might be susceptible to infections. There could be up to 20 billion oral microbes in your mouth at any given time. Immune-boosters may also help you heal faster.

The following may help fortify your body's immune system:

Probiotics

Just like there are bad bacteria, there are also good microbes that feed on bad bacteria, called probiotics. Studies have shown that probiotics offer many healthful benefits, especially if you want to ward off harmful bacteria. The following are just some sources of probiotics you can consider (with your dentist's approval):

• Fermented yogurt
• Fermented soy products, like tempeh
• Fermented vegetables, like kimchi, curtido, or sauerkraut
• Probiotics in pill form

Mushrooms

Another immune-booster that you might want to consider is mushrooms. Shiitake mushrooms contain strong minerals and vitamins that help fortify your T-cells. This recent study showed that mushrooms were able to improve the immunity of people who did not do anything but eat shiitake mushrooms to improve their immune system. You should start eating these at least four weeks before your procedure if you can. 

2. Stay Away From Natural Blood Thinners

Your dentist probably told you to avoid blood-thinners. But you should also stay away from blood-thinning foods. The following are some of the most commonly eaten foods that may thin your blood, which could possibly make you bleed a little more during the procedure:

• Strawberries and other berries
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Wine
• Vinegars
• Onions
• Olive oil

You can talk to your implant dentist about other blood-thinning foods that you should avoid. And, your dentist may talk to you about other foods that may interfere with the type of anesthesia that he or she is going to use. But, as you can see, there are a few things that you can do to help prepare your body for this dental procedure.