Getting "all-on-four" dental implants is a big step toward a new smile and a new you. But once the procedure is done, it's natural to wonder, "What happens now?" The time right after your surgery and the months that follow are crucial for the success and longevity of your new teeth.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the recovery process. From managing immediate post-op discomfort to understanding how to eat and care for your new smile, we'll cover all the essential steps. Our aim is to demystify the journey and give you the confidence to heal properly and enjoy your new, permanent teeth for years to come.
Immediately After -
After your all-on-four surgery, you should anticipate some swelling and mild to moderate pain. To manage this, follow your dentist's instructions for pain medication and use a cold compress on your cheeks. The first couple of days are critical for healing, so you must rest and take it easy. Your diet will be restricted to liquids and soft foods—things like smoothies, yogurt, and broth are great options. It's also vital to avoid straws and any vigorous spitting, which can put pressure on the surgical areas.
2 Weeks After Treatment -
Two weeks post-surgery marks a key milestone in your recovery. At this point, the initial pain and swelling should be largely gone. You'll likely feel much more like yourself and can start to enjoy a broader range of soft foods. Think of foods you can easily cut with a fork, such as soft pasta or fish. While you're on the road to recovery, the healing process is still ongoing. It's crucial to continue practicing excellent oral hygiene and to avoid any habits that could put stress on the implants, such as smoking or drinking alcohol in excess.
1 Month Post Treatment -
As you reach the one-month milestone, your recovery will be progressing very well. Any discomfort from the surgery should be a distant memory, and your new dental arch will feel much more natural. You can begin to gradually reintroduce a broader range of foods into your diet. While you're no longer on a strict soft-food diet, it's still wise to be cautious and listen to your body. Regular, gentle oral hygiene is now a consistent part of your routine. This period is all about settling into life with your new teeth and feeling the full benefits of your transformed smile.
6 Months Post Treatment -
At the six-month mark after your all-on-four procedure, the most significant milestone is often the transition to your permanent dental arch. By now, the osseointegration process—where the implants have fully fused with your jawbone—should be complete. This is when your temporary set of teeth will be replaced with your final, custom-made restoration. You'll be able to eat virtually any food you want with confidence and comfort, and your new smile will feel completely natural and secure. This is the point where you truly begin to experience the long-term benefits of your investment.
1 Year After Treatment -
One year after your all-on-four procedure, you have reached a significant milestone. At this point, your new permanent teeth are a fully integrated part of your life. The healing process is complete, and the implants are strong, stable, and ready to last for years to come. Your focus now shifts from healing to long-term maintenance. You can eat all your favourite foods without restriction and enjoy the full benefits of a secure, natural-looking smile. Regular dental check-ups and a consistent at-home hygiene routine are your best defence against complications, ensuring your investment remains in perfect condition.
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Your New Oral Hygiene Routine -
A crucial part of protecting your investment in all-on-four implants is establishing a meticulous cleaning routine. Once your final restoration is in place, you should treat your new teeth with the same level of care as natural teeth, if not more. A soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste are recommended for daily brushing. However, the most important tools for all-on-four care are those that clean under the prosthetic. A water flosser is a dentist-recommended device for this purpose, alongside super floss or implant-specific brushes that can navigate the space between the bridge and your gums.
After your all-on-four procedure has healed, you should schedule routine check-ups with your dentist. A good rule of thumb is to visit your dental team at least twice a year, or every twelve months. During these visits, your hygienist will use specialised instruments to safely and thoroughly clean the areas around your implants, particularly underneath the bridge, which can be difficult to access with home care alone. Your dentist will also perform a full examination to monitor the health of your jawbone and gums.
Ready to explore your options for a new smile? Book a consultation to discuss how all-on-four implants can transform your life.