Your Brief Guide to Recovering from All-on-4 Surgery

If you’ve heard of dental implants, you probably know that they’re considered the ultimate tooth restoration option in terms of look, feel, and functionality. One specific way in which they’re utilized is the All-on-4 method, which relies on strategically placing four implant posts into a patient’s jaw, coupled with a customized denture on top. Though this surgical procedure might sound a little intense, it’s nothing to worry about if you take the recovery period seriously and know what to expect. That said, here’s what you need to know and some tips to help you navigate the healing process.

What to Expect After the Procedure

The procedure itself is typically able to be completed in just one day, with the permanent teeth placed roughly six to eight weeks later once the implant posts have fused with the jawbone. It’s normal to anticipate some discomfort for 72 hours after the procedure, but you should begin to see some improvement soon after these first few days. During this time, it’s recommended that you have someone with you who can keep an eye on you. It’s also normal to endure significant swelling after surgery, as well as bruising that begins to resolve after the first week.

Tips for Ensuring a Smooth and Stress-Free Recovery

When it comes to recovering from any type of oral surgery, especially receiving All-on-4 dental implants, it’s incredibly important to follow any specific instructions provided by your oral surgeon. They know best and are an invaluable resource for navigating this recovery period. That said, here’s some general advice worth considering:

• Refrain from spitting or rinsing your mouth for the first 24 hours after surgery. Also, avoid tugging or pulling on your lips or cheeks to look at the surgical site.
• Avoid strenuous physical activities like exercising and heavy lifting, as an elevated heart rate can cause complications.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and stick to a liquids/soft foods diet that requires little to no chewing.
• Absolutely avoid bad oral habits like smoking or using tobacco; these can inhibit your body’s healing factor.
• Contact your oral surgeon if you experience excessive bleeding that can’t be stopped by biting down on gauze. 
• Take your prescribed and over-the-counter pain medications as needed. Ice packs and cold compresses can also be incredibly useful.

Dental implants have a remarkable success rate of 95% – 98%, meaning that if you take great care of them and allow them to heal properly during your recovery period, you’re setting them up for a promising future!

About the Practice

The talented team at EPO Dental Specialists has proudly served the Richardson, TX area for several years. Under the leadership of Dr. Javier Ortiz, Dr. Jan Ortiz, and Dr. Yaritza Vazquez, the practice offers a wide range of services including All-on-4 dental implants! If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to arrange a visit to see if All-on-4 surgery is right for you, don’t hesitate to contact the practice online or over the phone for additional information or assistance. Telephone: (972) 479-1200.