Many Aurora men and women who have been considering dental implants have most likely found themselves considering the All-on-4 dental implant option. This is a great option for people who have very damaged teeth, or who only have a partial set of teeth because it provides these patients with a whole new set of teeth. However, as you can imagine, having a whole new set of teeth can be a big change and take some getting used to. For you to fully recover and have the optimal possible outcome from your All-on-4 procedure, Dr. Ivey has provided you with some aftercare tips.
Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene
First and foremost, you must maintain proper oral hygiene after your All-on-4 procedure. As with natural teeth, your new dental implants need to be brushed twice a day, flossed once a day, and rinsed with antibacterial mouthwash once a day. This is the best way to prevent postoperative infection. For a few days following your procedure, you should use a soft bristle toothbrush to gently brush your teeth, while avoiding the surgical site. Dr. Ivey also recommends using a Waterpik to flush out trapped food from under and around your implants.
Follow Dr. Ivey Aftercare Instructions
Once your All-on-4 dental implants are placed, you will likely be sore and swollen. You could also experience light bleeding at the surgical sites. Not to worry – all these side effects are normal. Dr. Ivey will send you home with specific aftercare instructions, and you should follow them to a “T.” This means you need to take your pain medication as prescribed, and on a schedule even if you have to wake up in the middle of the night, so you don’t miss a dose. Staying on top of your pain is always easier than trying to catch up with it. Dr. Ivey may also recommend sleeping with your head elevated for the first few days to avoid excessive swelling. Aurora patients should also apply ice packs to the outer jaw several times a day to help with swelling and soreness.
What to Eat
During the first few days after your All-on-4 implant procedure, you will be restricted on what foods you can eat. To avoid potentially disrupting your implants, you will need to avoid hard and chewy foods. Aurora patients should eat soft foods for the first several weeks after their procedure. Some great options can include:
- Smoothies or protein shakes
- Soup
- Mashed potatoes
- Applesauce
- Pudding or yogurt
- Noodles
- Oatmeal
- Scrambled eggs
Check with Dr. Ivey before going back to your regular diet.
Rest!
Often, rest is overlooked when it comes to dental procedures. This can lead to complications and a longer healing period. Make preparations before your All-on-4 procedure to have help around the house for everyday needs. Find a delivery service in your local area to provide meals for your family while you are recovering. Call friends and family to arrange help with your children, cleaning, and other household chores. Forgetting to rest is one of the worst things you can do during your recovery. Your body needs time to heal, and if you don’t allow it, you could risk infection or dental implant failure.
Make an Appointment with Ivey Oral & Facial Surgery to Learn More
If you’re considering an All-on-4 implant procedure, call Dr. Ivey at his office in the Aurora area today. His friendly team will answer any questions you may have and will be happy to schedule your initial consultation. You can reach him at (303) 493-1933.
