
Dental implants can be a reliable solution for replacing missing teeth, helping restore comfort, function and confidence. If you’re considering dental implants in Hertfordshire and want to feel informed and ready for your procedure at Alban City Dental & Surgical Centre or a dental clinic in St Albans, this guide will help you prepare in practical, reassuring steps.
Preparing well for dental implant surgery can:
Dental implant success is linked not just to surgical skill but also to thorough implant surgery preparation and good general health.
Before surgery, your dentist will assess your oral and overall health to ensure you’re suitable for treatment and can give valid informed consent.
Before anything else, you’ll have a pre-surgical consultation. This will, at a minimum, include:
This assessment helps your dental team tailor treatment to your needs and ensures you fully understand the process.
“Good preparation begins with clear communication. We want you to know exactly what to expect and feel comfortable asking questions,” says Dr Prakash Promod, Clinical Director of Alban City Dental & Surgical Centre.
Good oral hygiene and overall health support healing:
Addressing modifiable risk factors like smoking and poor oral hygiene improves the likelihood of a positive outcome.
Certain habits can affect healing:
Smoking
Stopping smoking well before surgery is strongly advised and may be required by your clinician before treatment is performed. Smoking can slow healing and increase the risk of complications.
Alcohol
Avoid alcohol for at least a couple of days after your procedure, as it can interfere with medications and hydration.
These steps also support your body in recovery after surgery.
On the day before and the day of your procedure:
Nutrition and hydration
• Eat a balanced diet in the days leading up to surgery.
• Stay well-hydrated.
• If you’re having sedation or general anaesthesia, you may be told to fast for a certain time beforehand.
Sleep and rest
• Aim for a good night’s sleep before surgery.
• Feeling rested helps reduce stress and can support healing.
Plan your day
• Arrange transport to and from your appointment if you’re receiving sedation.
• Ensure you have transport arranged from your appointment as exercise must be avoided for a short period following your procedure, due to the risk of swelling (your surgeon will advise on how long).
• Wear comfortable, loose clothing.
• Consider what type of music would put you most at ease during your procedure. At Alban City Dental & Surgical Centre, we’ll let you choose your playlist.
These practical steps help make the day of surgery less stressful and more comfortable.
Your dental team will advise if any changes are needed to:
Discuss all medicines, vitamins, and supplements with your dentist or doctor well before the procedure. Be sure to let your surgeon know if you are taking weight loss injections, as these may slow wound healing.
There isn’t strong evidence that routine antibiotics prevent implant failure, but local practices may vary. Decisions about antibiotic use are made carefully, and your dentist will guide you according to current clinical reasoning and local guidelines.
It’s natural to feel nervous before surgery. You can:
Knowing what to expect helps many people feel calmer and more in control.
A short checklist for the day of surgery:
Preparation doesn’t stop with the surgery itself. Once your implants are placed:
Following these steps will optimise your chances of a good surgical outcome and healing. We invite you to experience the Alban City Dental difference – book a free dental implant consultation with Dr. Prakash today.