Restoring your smile with the help of All-on-4 implant dentures is an excellent way to combine the benefits of dental implants with the affordability of dentures. But to get your implant dentures, you’ll need to have a few dental implants placed to secure them. Here’s what you can expect from All-on-4 surgery, and how you can help ensure that your newly restored smile lasts a lifetime!
Preparing for All-on-4 Surgery
Following your preliminary dental appointments, you will be scheduled for your All-on-4 dental implant surgery. Be sure you have everything you need for recovery prior to your procedure date and be prepared with a ride to and from your appointment.
The Importance of Following Post-Op Instructions
The post-op instructions provided to you by your dentist are an essential key to a safe and healthy recovery, so be sure to follow them as closely as possible. They will not only help prevent any complications, but they can also greatly reduce pain and help you heal as quickly as possible.
Pain Management
Follow your dentist’s post-op instructions for pain management, including taking any prescribed or OTC pain relievers as directed. You can also use ice packs to help with swelling and pain. Furthermore, avoid hot or cold foods and stick to a soft diet until you are ready to eat solid foods. You can keep your mouth clean and comfortable by rinsing it frequently with warm salt water.
Common Side Effects
As with any surgical procedure, you will likely experience some side effects with All-on-4 surgery, including pain, swelling, and bruising. It is also not uncommon for patients to feel fatigue and limited mobility. If you develop a fever or any unexpected side effects, please contact your dentist as soon as possible.
Oral Hygiene Tips
Oral hygiene is very important following All-on-4 surgery. Be sure to gently brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Be sure to floss very carefully around your dental implants and do your best not to touch the surgical sites. Finish with the antimicrobial rinse your dentist prescribed.
Healing Times May Vary
Though it will vary from patient to patient, healing time for All-on-4 surgery typically takes between two to six months. At first, you can expect some discomfort, swelling and bruising, but this should only last a few days. Be sure to wear the temporary teeth your dentist provides you with, and don’t forget to attend all your follow-up appointments.
Remember, All-on-4 implant dentures are an excellent way to restore multiple lost teeth at once, but first you’ll need to heal from your procedure. To learn more about this dynamic treatment, schedule a consultation with your dentist today!
About Dr. Chandy
Dr. Moji Chandy earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery at the New York University College of Dentistry in 2006 and opened Aegis Dental in September 2012. She is a current, active member of the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and the North Texas Dental Society. If you are interested in learning more about all the wonderful benefits of All-on-4 implant dentures, please schedule an appointment with Aegis Dental by visiting our website or calling us at 972-492-6700.