If you need to replace an entire arch of missing teeth, then All-on-4 dentures might be the best way to achieve this. Unlike traditional ones, they’ll be directly anchored to your jawbone, restoring 80% or more of your biting power. While your new pearly whites will eventually feel natural, you will have to adjust your diet during your healing process. Keep reading to learn what you should expect after All-on-4 surgery in Milwaukee and what foods to stock up on in advance!
Recovering from All-On-4 Implant Surgery
Although getting dental implants placed during oral surgery may sound overwhelming, the procedure is relatively straightforward. Your dentist will make four small incisions in your gums where your metal posts will be embedded in your jawbone. They’ll then close your gums and may attach a temporary denture.
Once your procedure is completed, you’ll be required to rest for at least 24-72 hours to ensure optimal healing. You’ll be prescribed a pain medication to relieve discomfort, and you can also apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth or rinse regularly with salt water. You may experience mild swelling, soreness, and intermittent bleeding for the first week or two, which are all typical side effects.
Post-Op Instructions on Eating & Drinking
To help maintain a smooth and speedy recovery, you’ll need to practice proper dental hygiene, rest, and make some adjustments to your diet. You’ll need to avoid eating food or drinking hot beverages immediately after your surgery, at least until the numbness in your mouth goes away. Eating hard or crunchy meals may be difficult if you feel swelling or soreness, so you’ll want to stick with a mostly liquid diet, gradually adding soft foods when you’re ready. Make sure not to drink alcoholic, carbonated, and acidic beverages for several weeks, as these can cause harm to your implant site and interfere with your recovery process.
What Kinds of Foods Should I Stock Up On?
Once you know the date of your All-on-4 surgery, you might consider stocking your kitchen with certain foods and drinks that will be safe for you while you heal. These may include:
- Eggs, mashed potatoes, and plain oatmeal
- Broth, past, and pureed soup
- Applesauce, cottage cheese, and yogurt
- Water, milk, and protein shakes
- Frozen yogurt and ice cream
Try eating these foods for a couple of weeks or more to allow your mouth enough time to fully heal. By keeping your implant site safe and clean, you can be sure to enjoy a fully restored smile in no time!
About the Authors
Dr. Barry R. Franzen earned his dental doctorate from the Marquette University School of Dentistry and has provided outstanding care for well over three decades. He’s also a proud member of several prestigious groups like the American College of Prosthodontics, the Greater Milwaukee Dental Association, and the Academy of Osseointegration. He offers a wide range of comprehensive treatments, including dental implants and All-on-4 dentures to effectively restore missing teeth. If you’d like to know more about a proper diet after oral surgery, visit his website or call him at 414-543-5432.