All-On-4® FAQs

If you are missing all of your teeth in either your upper or lower arches, then you may be a good candidate for All-On-4. This uses four implants to support a set of false teeth. If your dentist has talked to you about this as an option for you, then you might have some questions about it. Read on to learn the answers to your frequently asked questions about All-On-4.

Does the All-On-4 procedure hurt?

The All-On-4 procedure is not designed to hurt when the implants are put in. At the very least, the patient will most likely receive local anesthesia. This will numb the area so that the patient will not feel pain. However, the patient may feel some pressure and hear the drill as the dentist drills into the bone to place each implant. Because of this, the dentist may offer an option for general anesthesia so that the patient can sleep through the procedure.

What is the recovery like after the procedure?

Right after the procedure, a patient’s mouth will still be numb because of the anesthesia. However, this will begin to wear off after a few hours, and the patient may begin to feel some discomfort. The patient can take pain relievers to minimize this discomfort. A dentist may recommend that the patient use an ice pack in the area. This can reduce the likelihood of swelling or bruising after the first several days. The cold may also help to reduce pain.

What foods can be eaten after the procedure?

The patient will need to eat soft foods right after the procedure and avoid ones that require chewing. A patient has several options for foods right after the procedure, including:

• Applesauce without pieces in it
• Yogurt, including regular and Greek
• Soft serve ice cream
• Smoothies
• Mashed potatoes

It is wise to stay away from extremely hot foods, such as soups. These can prolong the bleeding. Patients can wait for soups and other foods to cool to a lukewarm temperature before eating. Within a few days, a dentist may let a patient eat foods that require some chewing, such as scrambled eggs or soft pasta.

What is the right way to care for All-On-4?

The All-On-4 system can be cared for like natural teeth. The patient should brush and floss the teeth regularly and visit the dentist often for exams. It is important to clean underneath the artificial teeth because bacteria can live there. A dentist may recommend that a patient use an interdental brush to better clean underneath the artificial teeth. It may also be helpful to use a water flosser, which shoots a thin stream of water between the teeth.

Visit a dentist today

Knowing more about All-On-4 can help alleviate any of your concerns about the procedure and the implants. If you have missing teeth, then All-On-4 can be a good option to replace them. While the recovery takes some time, you will most likely find that your new smile makes everything worth it. Contact a dentist today to learn more about getting All-On-4.

Request an appointment here: https://smilesonmichigan.com or call Smiles On Michigan at (312) 509-9492 for an appointment in our Chicago office.

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