It might seem like a daunting commitment, but All-on-4 surgery is quite straightforward and the recovery period is very manageable, especially if you go into it knowing what sort of diet you’ll need to stick with. That said, your dentist will also be able to provide you with additional specific guidelines and answer any questions you have about the process; eating a nutritious diet is a large part of recovery! Here’s what you need to know about the process and how to manage your diet afterward.
What Does All-on-4 Surgery Entail?
All-on-4 dental implants refer to a dental procedure that uses four strategically placed dental implants to help restore a patient’s missing teeth. The implants are placed directly into the jawbone, which, once fused with the bone tissue, are capable of supporting custom-made dental restorations, such as a bridge or dentures. This procedure is typically less invasive since it only requires four implants, and it can often be performed in a single appointment. It also doesn’t require the same density of bone to secure the implants.
That said, it is still an oral surgical procedure and does come with some post-op symptoms and side effects. Some common symptoms include things like:
- Minimal bleeding and swelling around the site.
- The feeling of stiffness in your jaw muscles.
- Sore throat or difficulty swallowing.
- Mild pain at the surgical site.
These side effects are generally temporary and should dissipate after one week; in the meantime, follow the instructions given by your provider and consider using prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication to manage your discomfort.
How Should I Navigate My Diet Following All-on-4 Surgery?
Following your procedure, you’ll have specific guidelines concerning things like oral hygiene, exercise, and of course, your diet. For the first couple of days following your surgery, you’ll have to be very particular about what you’re eating and drinking; these restrictions will change as time goes on, but you’ll want to pay close attention to how well your mouth is healing.
For the first few days up to about two weeks after your surgery, since your mouth will still be sensitive and sore, you’ll need to stick to a purely liquid and soft-food diet that minimizes chewing. You’ll also need to stay on top of your hydration since it helps your mouth heal. Within the first 48 hours of surgery, stick to clear fluids, gradually adding in heavier fluids once you can tolerate it. Just be sure to avoid using a straw at all times, since the suction can negatively impact your mouth’s healing process.
In any case, some good options to stock up on for this timeframe include items like water, coconut water, fruit juices, tea, protein shakes, smoothies, and yogurt drinks. Once you’re able to begin adding in soft foods, consider choices like yogurt, mashed potatoes and other vegetables, scrambled eggs, boiled pasta and rice, lukewarm soups and broths, and similar foods. If you have a blender or food processor, you can enjoy your restrictions better since you’ll be able to blend your favorites down into a manageable, softer form.
About the Practice
The team at Northern Virginia Oral, Maxillofacial, & Implant Surgery has proudly served the needs of patients in Burke and the surrounding areas for several years. Under the talented leadership of Dr. Amir Naimi, Dr. Pedram Yaghmai, Dr. Amro Shihabi, and Dr. Hadi Ansari, the team offers a wide range of oral surgery services, including All-on-4 dental implants. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with us to set up an appointment, please reach out to us online or directly by phone for assistance. Telephone: (703) 425-5010.