What To Expect After All On 4 Surgery?

All-on-4 dental implants are, for many of our Jacksonville area patients, an attractive alternative to traditional dentures. They don’t require adhesives and can be taken care of like natural teeth. The minimally invasive procedure is typically completed in one day, with permanent teeth placed about six to eight weeks once the implants have fused to the jawbone.

All-on-4 Post Surgery: What to Expect

You can expect some discomfort for up to three days after surgery. After that, you should see progressive improvement. Here’s how the typical recovery period plays out:

• 72-hours of rest is recommended post-surgery, and it’s a good idea to have someone else with you for the first 12 hours as some people who have general anesthesia or IV sedation experience light-headedness, sleepiness, and dizziness during that time.
• Significant swelling can occur after surgery. An ice pack applied to both sides of your face every 15 to 20 minutes on the first day can help. After that, moist heat is recommended.
• Bruising occurs with some patients and typically appears a few days post-surgery. It tends to resolve after the first week.
  

Tips for a Faster All-on-4 Recovery

To ensure a speedy recovery from an All-on-4 procedure, follow these simple dos and don’ts.

• Don’t tug on your lips or cheeks to look at the surgical site, as it can delay healing or tear the sutures. Also refrain from rinsing or spitting for 24 hours post-surgery.
• Do take any prescribed medications as directed by your dentist.
• Don’t overdo it. Refrain from physical activities like exercise and heavy lifting for the first week after surgery as an elevated heart rate can delay healing and promote bleeding.
• Do drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and eat only soft foods that require little to no chewing. Chopped, mashed, and pureed foods are a good idea for the first three months post-surgery, but your dentist or oral surgeon can advise when the time is right to return to your regular diet.
• Don’t be concerned if there is some redness or bleeding in the first 24 hours after surgery. Excessive bleeding that can’t be stopped by biting down on a gauze pad for 30 minutes should be reported to your dentist. If you smoke, it’s a good idea to give it up for the first week after surgery as it can delay healing, dry out your mouth tissues, and cause your gums to bleed for a longer time.

Finally, be sure to practice good post-surgery oral hygiene. It’s essential to healing and protects the investment you’ve made in your dental health. Ask your dentist to give you instructions on how to protect your incisions and promote healing. A warm saltwater rinse used four to five times a day, particularly after meals, can also help.

Are All-on-4 Dental Implants Right for You?

The good news is that once you’ve healed from your All-on-4 procedure, and as long as you follow good at-home oral health habits, there’s a 98% chance of success with your new implants. If you’re trying to decide whether the best way to restore your smile is with an All-on-4 dental implant procedure, Kanehl Dental can help. Ready to learn more? Contact us today to book a consultation with Dr. Kanehl.