16 Jan What is the Procedure for Getting All-on-4 Dental Implants?
Before getting implants, you’ll likely want to know more about the All-on-4 dental implants procedure. The most important thing is that it only takes one day, so it’s quicker than many other options for replacing missing teeth. While your dentist will answer any questions before the procedure, this is what you can expect.
The All-on-4 Dental Implants Initial Exam
Before you even schedule the All-on-4 dental implants procedure, you’ll undergo an initial examination. During this time, your dentist goes over your medical history, takes scans to check bone density, and helps you decide the best options for you.
During your exam, you’ll discuss whether you want to do both the top and bottom arches, one or the other, or just a partial area. If you still have some of your teeth and want implants instead, they’ll need to be pulled and the area healed before your implant procedure.
The All-on-4 Dental Implants Procedure
On average, the procedure takes around 2.5 hours per arch. So, expect to spend about five hours for a complete set of teeth. And yes, both sets can be done on the same day.
For most people, you’ll need four implants per arch – two at the back and two near the front. A small incision is made in your gum to place each implant. The area is then stitched closed. You’ll have general anesthesia during the procedure so that you won’t feel anything.
Getting Your Teeth
The implant areas need time to heal and set. However, immediately after your procedure, you’ll be fitted with a temporary set of teeth. While All-on-4 implants are called teeth in a day, it actually takes up to six months before you’ll go back in for your permanent set of teeth.
Healing After the Procedure
Most patients recover with zero problems after their All-on-4 dental implant procedure. While OTC pain medications are usually enough, your dentist may prescribe something stronger if necessary. It’s vital that you rest for at least three days following the procedure and eat a diet of soft foods for around three weeks to avoid aggravating the implant sites.
During this time, you can’t smoke at all. You’ll also need to have someone stay with you for the first 12 hours after surgery. Your dentist will give you paperwork about what you can and can’t do after the procedure. Follow this to-do list exactly, and you’ll heal quicker.
Want to learn more about these implants? Check out what to expect with COOMSA’s All-on-4 dental implants.