Opening times:
Monday to Saturday 9 am - 6 pm
Monday to Saturday 9 am - 6 pm
01 444 33 70 / 087 320 1900
info@luxdent.ie
Unit A, Block A, Malthouse House,
Smithfield Village, Dublin 7, D07 HKF6
info@luxdent.ie
Unit A, Block A, Malthouse House,
Smithfield Village, Dublin 7, D07 HKF6
How to Prepare for Your Dental Implant Procedure
Our prices for dental implants 
Why Good Preparation Matters
Think of your jawbone and gums as the foundation for your new smile. Proper preparation ensures the bone is healthy and dense enough to hold the implant securely, and that the surrounding gums are inflammation-free.
The Stages of Implant Therapy
Getting a dental implant isn’t a one-day event; it’s a well-planned journey made up of several stages:
1. Initial Consultation & Assessment – Your dentist reviews your oral and overall health, takes 3D scans, and builds a personalized plan.
2. Surgical Placement – The titanium post is gently placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia or sedation.
3. Healing & Osseointegration – The bone bonds tightly to the implant over the next few months, creating a strong foundation.
4. Abutment & Crown Placement – Once healing is complete, a custom-made crown is fitted for a natural, seamless smile.
2. Surgical Placement – The titanium post is gently placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia or sedation.
3. Healing & Osseointegration – The bone bonds tightly to the implant over the next few months, creating a strong foundation.
4. Abutment & Crown Placement – Once healing is complete, a custom-made crown is fitted for a natural, seamless smile.
Timeline: What to Do Weeks, Days & Hours Ahead
8–4 Weeks Before Your Dental Implant Surgery
The countdown to your new smile begins long before the day of surgery. The few weeks leading up to your implant placement are your chance to build the perfect foundation for healing and long-term success.
- Complete Periodontal Treatment, Extractions & GraftsIf your dentist has recommended periodontal therapy (to treat gum disease), tooth extractions, or bone grafting, this is the time to get them done. Healthy gums and infection-free tissue are essential for your implant to bond properly with the bone.
- Cease Smoking and Adjust MedicationsSmoking and nicotine products restrict blood flow and slow healing — not exactly ideal for osseointegration. It’s best to quit at least 4 weeks before surgery to give your tissues time to recover.
For medications, let your dental surgeon and GP know about everything you’re taking — prescriptions, supplements, and herbal products. - Begin Nutritional Plan and SupplementsYour jawbone is about to do some heavy healing work — and it needs the right fuel. Start focusing on a bone-friendly diet rich in:
Calcium & Vitamin D – from dairy, fish, eggs, or fortified foods.
Protein – to rebuild tissue and speed recovery.
Vitamin C & Zinc – to boost collagen production and immunity.
If advised by your dentist, consider supplements to support healing (always under medical supervision). Hydration is equally key — aim for steady water intake every day. - Pro tip from LuxdentThink of this phase as planting the soil before the implant “seed.” The healthier your mouth and body now, the smoother your surgery — and the faster your smile blooms.
2–1 Weeks Before Your Dental Implant Surgery
Your dental implant day is getting close — exciting, right? This is the fine-tuning phase, where you and your Luxdent team make sure every detail is in place for a safe, smooth, and stress-free procedure.
- Final Hygiene Appointment & Professional CleaningNow’s the time for your final dental hygiene visit before surgery. A professional cleaning removes any stubborn plaque and bacteria your toothbrush can’t reach, helping prevent infection around the future implant site.
Use this visit to ask your hygienist about specific oral-care tips for your surgery day — for example, which mouthwash to use and how to brush gently around sensitive areas. - Pre-Purchase Supplies for a Smooth RecoveryStocking up early means you can relax after surgery — no supermarket trips with swollen cheeks! Prepare your post-op recovery kit with essentials such as:
Soft foods: yogurt, soups, mashed potatoes, smoothies, scrambled eggs, oatmeal.
Cold packs or gel ice packs: to reduce swelling.
Soft toothbrush & alcohol-free mouthwash: for gentle hygiene.
Pain relief & prescribed medication: collected in advance.
Extra pillows & clean towels: to elevate your head and rest comfortably.
If you’ll have sedation, arrange transport home and someone to stay with you the first night.
3–7 Days Before Your Dental Implant Surgery
You’re just a few days away from your new smile! This is the moment to focus on simple but important details that will make your surgery day smooth and stress-free.
- Stop Any Advised MedicationsIf your Luxdent dentist or GP has instructed you to pause certain medications or supplements, do so exactly as directed. Some common examples include:
- Blood thinners (e.g. aspirin, warfarin, clopidogrel)
- Anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g. ibuprofen, naproxen)
- Herbal or vitamin supplements like fish oil, garlic, or vitamin E
These can increase bleeding or interfere with healing. Always follow professional guidance — never adjust prescriptions on your own. - Keep a Light Diet and Get Extra RestEat simple, nourishing meals to keep your body balanced before surgery. Choose soft proteins, fresh fruits, vegetables, and plenty of water. Avoid alcohol, limit caffeine, and skip heavy or spicy meals that might upset your stomach.
Aim for early nights and steady rest throughout the week. A well-rested body responds better to anesthesia and recovers faster after the procedure.
Luxdent tip: Think of this week as your “soft landing zone.” The more calmly and carefully you prepare now, the smoother your recovery will be later.
1 Day Before Your Dental Implant Surgery
Today is all about keeping calm, resting well, and making sure everything is ready for a smooth experience.
- Avoid Alcohol and Prioritize a Good Night’s SleepSkip alcohol entirely the day before surgery — it can interfere with anesthesia, hydration, and healing. Instead, drink plenty of water throughout the day and aim for a full, restful night of sleep. A calm, well-rested body heals faster and handles anesthesia far more smoothly.
Luxdent tip: Treat tonight like the eve of a big trip — pack light, go to bed early, and wake up refreshed. - Stick to a Soft, Light Diet and Stay HydratedEat easy-to-digest foods such as soups, pasta, mashed vegetables, or oatmeal. Avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy meals that could upset your stomach. Hydrate consistently — aim for several glasses of water during the day, but remember to follow your dentist’s instructions about fasting times before surgery (especially if sedation will be used).
On the Day of Your Dental Implant Surgery (Hours Before)
The goal this morning is simple: stay calm, stay comfortable, and follow your pre-op instructions carefully.
- Follow Fasting RulesIf you’re having sedation or IV anesthesia, you’ll need to avoid all food and drink for 6–8 hours before surgery, unless your dentist has told you otherwise. This helps prevent nausea and keeps you safe during the procedure.
You can usually take essential medications with a small sip of water, but only if your Luxdent dentist or GP has approved it.
Tip: Brush your teeth before you arrive, but avoid swallowing water or mouthwash. - What to WearChoose loose, comfortable clothing — short sleeves or a shirt that allows easy access to your arm if you’re receiving sedation.
Skip makeup, perfume, aftershave, or nail polish (these can interfere with monitoring equipment).
Wear flat shoes and avoid jewelry — no earrings, necklaces, or watches.
If you wear contact lenses, remove them and bring your glasses instead.
FAQs About How to Prepare for Your Dental
Implant Procedure
We know dental implant surgery can feel like a big step, and questions are completely normal. Here are some of the most common concerns our Luxdent patients have before their procedure — and our expert answers to help put your mind at ease.
If your procedure involves sedation or IV anesthesia, you’ll usually need to **avoid eating or drinking for 6–8 hours before surgery**.
If you’re having local anesthesia only, your dentist may recommend a light meal a few hours before your appointment. Always follow the specific fasting instructions provided by your Luxdent dentist — they’re designed to keep you safe and comfortable.
If you’re having local anesthesia only, your dentist may recommend a light meal a few hours before your appointment. Always follow the specific fasting instructions provided by your Luxdent dentist — they’re designed to keep you safe and comfortable.
Good news: dental implant surgery shouldn’t hurt. During the procedure, you’ll be fully numbed or sedated. You might feel some pressure or vibration, but no pain.
Mild soreness and swelling after surgery are completely normal and can be easily managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief. Most patients describe it as less painful than a tooth extraction.
This depends on the complexity of your surgery. For a single implant, many patients return to work within 2–3 days.
If you’ve had multiple implants or bone grafting, you may need up to a week off to rest and recover. Your Luxdent dentist will advise you based on your specific treatment plan.
In most cases, yes — continue your regular prescribed medications, especially for conditions like blood pressure, thyroid, or diabetes, unless your doctor or dentist advises otherwise.
Some medications (like blood thinners or anti-inflammatories) may need temporary adjustment before surgery. Always discuss your full medication list with your dentist and GP well in advance.
Some medications (like blood thinners or anti-inflammatories) may need temporary adjustment before surgery. Always discuss your full medication list with your dentist and GP well in advance.
You can usually brush gently the day after surgery, avoiding the implant site for a few days until tenderness subsides.
Flossing and rinsing should be done only as directed — typically with a saltwater or prescribed mouthwash, not regular mouthwash with alcohol.
Your Luxdent team will give you specific aftercare instructions tailored to your healing progress.
Flossing and rinsing should be done only as directed — typically with a saltwater or prescribed mouthwash, not regular mouthwash with alcohol.
Your Luxdent team will give you specific aftercare instructions tailored to your healing progress.
After the implant is placed, your jawbone needs time to bond securely with it — a process called osseointegration.
This healing phase usually takes 3–6 months, depending on your bone health and individual response. Once complete, your dentist will attach the permanent crown, giving you a natural-looking, fully functional new tooth.
This healing phase usually takes 3–6 months, depending on your bone health and individual response. Once complete, your dentist will attach the permanent crown, giving you a natural-looking, fully functional new tooth.
LUXDENT
At Luxdent Clinic in Dublin, our expert implant team is here to guide you through every stage — from your very first consultation to your final crown.
If you’re planning a dental implant or still exploring your options, book your consultation with Luxdent today. We’ll assess your oral health, answer every question, and create a personalized preparation plan designed for your comfort and success.
If you’re planning a dental implant or still exploring your options, book your consultation with Luxdent today. We’ll assess your oral health, answer every question, and create a personalized preparation plan designed for your comfort and success.
LUXDENT
Book appointment or ask your question about our services
Dental clinic in Dublin
Contact us:
Ph: 01 444 3370 / 087 320 1900
E: info@luxdent.ie
Ph: 01 444 3370 / 087 320 1900
E: info@luxdent.ie
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