If you are scheduled for All-on-4 dental implant surgery, you may feel anxious about what comes after the surgery. Knowing what to expect after the procedure will help you plan and prepare for a successful recovery.
This blog post will cover what to expect immediately after surgery, what to expect in the weeks following surgery, and how to best care for yourself during the recovery process.
Immediately After Surgery
The sedation used during All-on-4 dental implant surgery will take time to wear off. For this reason, you will not be able to drive yourself home following the procedure. As the sedation wears off, you may experience some discomfort and swelling.
Swelling is a normal part of the healing process. You will notice swelling 24 hours after surgery, and it may continue for 2-3 days. To reduce swelling, try the following:
- Apply an ice pack to the area for 20 minutes at a time; 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off.
- Never apply an ice pack directly to the skin. Wrap the ice pack in a towel to create a barrier between the ice pack and your skin.
- Keep your head elevated for the first three days.
- Limit chewing and speaking.
You may also experience bleeding after the procedure. Do not panic; this is normal. If you experience bleeding, place a gauze pad over the area and bite down firmly for 30-45 minutes. If the bleeding continues, replace the gauze and bite down for an additional 45 minutes. Remain calm and keep your head elevated. If bleeding persists, contact our office at (480) 830-5866.
Pain Management
If your surgeon prescribed pain medication, take it before the numbing medication wears off. The pain will be most intense within 6 hours of the anesthetic wearing off on the day of surgery. Take prescribed medication as directed by your surgeon for the first two or three days after surgery. As the pain decreases, you should be able to manage your pain with over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol). If you continue to experience severe pain after day three, contact our office at (480) 830-5866.
In the Weeks Following Surgery
After your All-on-4 procedure, you will need to take a few days off of work and other activities. You may also experience some soreness for several days after the procedure. As the healing progresses, this pain should subside, and you can slowly transition back to normal activities.
Diet
It is important to follow a soft food diet while healing. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could cause damage to the surgical sites as they heal. Foods like soups, yogurt, scrambled eggs, and mashed potatoes are good options. If you still have difficulty chewing after two weeks, your surgeon may recommend adding an oral supplement.
Activity
It is important to rest in the days following surgery. Avoid activities or exercises that will create pressure in your mouth, like running, weightlifting, or rigorous sports. Your doctor will advise you when to resume normal physical activities. Remember that your diet will be significantly reduced, leading to lower energy levels. Listen to your body and stop any activity that causes pain in your mouth.
Signs of Infection
It is normal to experience some swelling, bruising, and redness at the surgical sites. However, if you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your surgeon immediately:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever
- Increased pain or redness around the surgical sites
- Excessive bleeding from the mouth or nose
- Pus around the implant
Smoking
Smoking can interfere with the healing process and lead to complications. If you smoke, it is recommended that you quit. Smoking can lead to implant failure for the following reasons:
- Smoking decreases the amount of oxygen in your blood, causing a delay in healing.
- Nicotine constricts blood vessels and can reduce the flow of nutrients to your gums.
- Smoking causes a buildup of plaque, which can lead to gum disease.
- Bacteria associated with smoking can cause infection in the gums and jawbone.
Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is essential for the success of your dental implant procedure. However, it is important to follow these specific instructions:
- Do not brush around the surgical site for 7 days.
- Do not vigorously rinse your mouth for 14 days after surgery.
- If an antibiotic rinse is prescribed, please use it as directed.
After the first week, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gently brush around the surgical site. Carefully floss the area around your implants to prevent any plaque buildup. It is also important to rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution at least twice a day. This will help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
To make a saltwater rinse, mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water. Swish the mixture around your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out. Do not swallow any of the solution.
Prepare for Success!
The All-on-4 dental implant procedure can dramatically improve your quality of life, but it requires a commitment to proper post-procedure care. Following the instructions provided by your surgeon will ensure that your implants and gums heal properly and remain healthy for many years. We hope this information has helped you to feel confident going into your All-on-4 dental implant procedure.
If you have been searching for All-on-4 dental implants near me or have been wondering about the procedure but are hesitant to schedule an appointment because of anxiety or fear, trust the expert at AZ Max. We are committed to providing you with the highest quality care and ensuring your dental implant procedure is successful. For All-on-4 dental implants in Mesa, AZ, contact AZ Max Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons at (480) 830-5866 or complete the online booking form.
For All-On-4 implants in Mesa, AZ, All-On-4 dental implants in Tempe, AZ, and dental implants in Queen Creek, AZ and Show Low – trust the experts at AZ Max.
