All-On-4 dental implants are a great investment because you can enjoy a complete smile again in just one day. Fewer implant posts are used to stabilize your denture, so you won’t have to go without any teeth while your jaw heals. Although fewer posts are needed, you’ll still benefit from the same unmatched stability of a traditional implant denture, but you won’t be having steak for dinner right away. Here’s what you can expect as you recover from your All-On-4 surgery.
All-On-4 Surgery and Recovery
A dental implant is unlike any other treatment because it replicates the root and crown. When suffering from complete tooth loss in an arch, each root isn’t replaced individually. Instead, a specific number of posts are used to anchor a denture to the jawbone. Traditionally, 8 to 10 posts can be needed, but the latest advancements in dentistry make it possible to achieve the same success rate using only 4. This makes the procedure less invasive, so you can be fitted with your denture the same day as your placement surgery.
Although you’ll have a complete, beautiful smile when you walk out of the dental office, your new teeth aren’t going to be ready to use for a couple of weeks. While your gums will heal quickly, it will take several months for your bone to fuse to the posts through a process called osseointegration.
Your implant dentist will give you strict aftercare instructions to ensure there aren’t any delays or complications in your healing. They’ll also provide you with the information you need for an easy, comfortable recovery.
Aftercare Instructions for All-On-4 Surgery
Once the effects of any sedatives or numbing agents dissipate, your mouth will be sore. You can manage it using any prescribed or OTC pain relievers. You can also apply a cold compress to the outside of your face to numb the area while reducing swelling and bruising.
You’ll have to stick to a soft diet for several days to avoid causing unnecessary pressure on the implant posts, like smoothies, yogurt, or broths. As your discomfort subsides and your mouth heals, your dentist will give the go-ahead to introduce your regular diet gradually.
Besides watching what you eat, the success of your new smile relies on your oral hygiene. Although your mouth will be tender, you still need to carefully brush and floss to prevent an infection. However, you’ll need to avoid rinsing your mouth for the first day. After 3-4 days, your pain will begin to improve, and you’ll be on your way to enjoying a juicy steak.
With the right care during and after your All-On-4 recovery, your new smile can last for a lifetime. Don’t hesitate to contact your dentist if you have any concerns after your surgery.
About Dr. Stephen Walker
Dr. Walker earned his dental degree from Baylor College of Dentistry before continuing his education in periodontics. If you’re interested in All-On-4, don’t trust your smile to just anyone. Choose an award-winning dentist. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.