Have you never received oral surgery in the past? If not, the prospect of All-on-4 dental implants can feel a bit daunting at first. There is a healing and recovery process that comes after receiving your dental implants, but it’s not as long or as difficult as you may think. In fact, many patients are able to resume their normal daily activities after about a week. To learn the best recovery steps after receiving your dental implants from an oral surgeon, keep reading!
What You Should Do Immediately After Surgery
Whether you’re receiving single dental implants are several to hold a dedicated denture, you can expect your aftercare symptoms to be the same. Some of the most common side effects include minimal bleeding, minor swelling, a stiff jaw and sore facial muscles, sore throat, and mild discomfort.
These symptoms can be managed using prescription medications provided by our office as well as over-the-counter options you can find in local pharmacies. Your symptoms should go away entirely within the next one to two weeks. Applying gauze pads to the treatment sites and replacing them as needed is also essential. A cold compress wrapped in a towel will help bring down swelling and reduce discomfort.
Furthermore, make sure to get plenty of rest and avoid any strenuous activities for the next couple of weeks. Failing to do so can cause your wounds to reopen, prolonging the healing phase of your tooth replacement.
Preparing Your Diet for the Next Couple Weeks
Eating solid foods is not advised as you recover since you’ll have a sore throat and general discomfort to manage. Instead, stick to a liquid diet for one to two weeks until you’re able to swallow and open your mouth comfortably again. For the next 48 hours, stick to cold liquids and avoid anything that’s very hot. Drink lots of water to promote healing of your oral tissue.
Ahead of your surgery we recommend not only filling any prescriptions you’ve been given, but stocking up on the following fridge and pantry items so you can get started on recovery as soon as possible:
- Coconut water
- Tea
- Fruit juice
- Broth
- Pureed vegetable soup
- Milk
- Yogurt drinks
- Sherbet, ice cream, or frozen yogurt
- Applesauce or other pureed fruits
- Protein powder, powdered egg whites, and other additives to include in smoothies and milkshakes to help you stay full.
Stay On Top of Follow-Up Visits
You’ll need to stay on top of your follow-up appointments so the surgeon can confirm that your mouth is healing as planned. Keep in mind that once your surgery is complete, you’ll receive a temporary denture that is only designed to be removed by a professional, such as a dentist. You’ll wear this denture over the next several months while the dental implants fuse with your jawbone. After they’ve fully healed, you’ll head back to the office to receive your permanent restoration.
Have more questions about All-on-4 recovery? Schedule a consultation with an oral surgeon today!
About the Author
Dr. Mykle Jacobs has been practicing oral surgery for over two decades and enjoys nothing more than helping patients get back to smiling again. He’s well experienced in helping anxious or apprehensive patients get comfortable ahead of the treatment process and creating the most relaxing environment possible. To schedule an appointment, you can contact him through his website.