Are you getting ready to undergo a dental procedure that will improve the way your mouth functions, feels, and looks? If you have a few broken, missing, or damaged teeth, your prosthodontist may have already recommended a procedure that instantly replaces all your missing teeth at once.
There are many benefits to having all-on-4 dental implants, which makes it easy to see why itโs such a popular treatment in Australia. If youโre wondering what to expect with this procedure, then this post will help give you an idea.
What to Expect With All-On-4 Dental Implants
An all-on-4 dental implant procedure refers to an innovative dental solution for anyone who has an entire row (also called an arch) of damaged or missing teeth.
The procedure involves surgically implanting four titanium implants into your jawbone. These then serve as anchors for teeth that can cover the entire open side.ย
Typically, the all-on-4 implants differ from traditional dentures in that they are permanently placed onto the titanium screws and therefore donโt require daily removal or specialised adhesive. This procedure is typically done in two stages as follows:
- Stage 1: A thorough examination and dental assessment are done, which includes x-rays and an assessment of your current oral health.ย
- Stage 2: Any damaged and broken teeth, as well as any roots of worn teeth, are removed. Titanium implants are strategically placed into the jawbone. Replacement teeth are attached to look and feel natural. Resembling veneers, these teeth are made to withstand everyday wear and tear and, if maintained, can last years.
One Procedure Can Instantly Improve Your Teeth
Many people shy away from having their broken teeth fixed because they have so many and feel that it may be too costly or too painful to repair so many at once.
Fortunately, the all-on-4 dental procedure allows for an effective 2-stage process that repairs many teeth at once. Hereโs a list of the preparation tips to help you get ready for the procedure.ย
1. Plan and Prepare in Advance
The whole all-on-4 process involves assessments, the initial surgery, and several follow-up visits. Itโs a good idea to map out the whole procure to allow for proper planning. You will need to schedule time off work for the procedure as well as recovery time.
2. Discuss all Your Current Medications and Conditions
Be sure to tell your prosthodontist about all the medications and supplements youโre currently taking. This is essential as they may contradict the dental medications you will have to take.
Contrasting medication combinations can also make you ill, as well as make the procedure ineffective.ย
3. Arrange for Someone to Drive You
Itโs a good idea to get a friend or relative to drive you on the days of the different phases of the actual procedure.
This is because certain dental medications can make you drowsy. Keep in mind that each person reacts differently to medication.
Pain from the procedure may also make you feel uncomfortable. Having someone around to get you home is the safest option.ย
4. Prepare for the Healing Process
Just like the reaction to medication, the healing process also varies between people. On average, a mouth usually takes a few weeks to heal completely after your procedure.
Itโs essential to stock up on soft foods that wonโt hurt your mouth or put unnecessary pressure on the implants before theyโve settled.ย
Eggs, soups, and mashed veggies are good options to consider.ย You should also ask your prosthodontist for a list of foods to avoid during your healing process.
Itโs also a good idea to stock up on pain relief medications, ice packs, and a dental care kit that usually includes a soft toothbrush and mild mouthwash.ย
Speak to your prosthodontist about the best type of toothbrush and mouthwash to use. Medications that are too strong may hamper your gum’s healing process.
Remember that your implants need to fuse with the bones in your gums, and interfering with this process can cause implant failure.ย
5. Ditch the Bad Habits
Some lifestyle factors, such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, will hinder the healing process, which impacts the implant.
You may need to make significant changes to your lifestyle to ensure that the procedure is successful.ย
Your prosthodontist will discuss these changes with you long in advance. Some, such as the request to quit smoking, may be requested at least two weeks before the procedure. This is because the nicotine in tobacco products can hamper the healing process.
6. Make a Long-Term Commitment to Dental Care
You will need to be committed to taking exceptional care of your new prosthetic teeth to ensure they last as long as proposed.
This will include regular dental check-ups and daily steps to maintain good oral hygiene. Itโs important to follow your prosthodontistโs instructions and guidelines.ย
Final Thoughts
The all-on-4 process has been designed to improve the overall function and long-term health of your teeth and mouth.
This will require taking extra care of your oral hygiene before and after the procedure. Doing this will give the implants a better chance of settling into your mouth, ensuring long-term success!
