subject: Frequently Asked Questions About All On 4 Tm Dental Implants, Part 3 [print this page] Welcome to the final installment of this three-part article series on All on 4TM dental implants. This procedure has provided previously edentulous (toothless) or near-edentulous patients with a far more cost-effective and far less traumatic way to get a complete set of new and non-removable teeth. Gone are the days when removable dentures were considered the most viable tooth replacement technology. Nowadays, oral surgeons are able to achieve unprecedented feats with the aid of dental implants and the sophisticated surgical protocol that govern their placement.
In this article, we shall be addressing some of your final FAQs on the All on 4 TM. It is hoped that, armed with this important information, you will go on to make the best possible decisions regarding the future of your oral health and smile confidence.
FAQ: How long will I need to take off from work?
Answer: Most patients dont take more than one or two days off from work after having their new set of teeth placed. In fact, many go straight back into work the very day after their surgery! Its probably best to give yourself at least one day to relax. If, however, your job is very active and involves physical exertion, you may need to take some additional days off. Speak to your surgeon before you apply for leave.
FAQ: Will I need to come in for a post-operative examination?
Answer: Yes, your oral surgeon will need to check up on you during the healing process to make sure the integration of the implants in your jaw bone is on the right track. This appointment is generally scheduled 1-2 weeks subsequent to your All on 4TM surgery. In addition to having the health of your implants and the healing of your tissues verified, your temporary prosthetic dental bridge will be detached, cleaned, adjusted and reinserted that day.
FAQ: Once my jaw has healed, will I be able to eat a normal diet?
Answer: Absolutely! During the first few months youll be wearing the temporary bridge, with which you can eat most foods. After that healing period and your implants have osseointegrated (bonded to the jaw bone), a final bridge is affixed to your dental implants. This bridge has been custom fabricated with strong titanium framework to withstand powerful biting forces, so you can eat all the foods you love. There will be some things the oral surgeon will caution you against, such as popcorn kernels and ice. But there is little you wont be able to eat that you could enjoy with a mouth full of natural teeth. Say hello to crisp, crunchy vegetables and juicy, tender steaks!
FAQ: Is there anything I need to know about the maintenance of my new teeth?
Answer: The great thing about the All on 4TM is that your new teeth are cleaned and maintained similarly to natural teeth. Make sure you brush and floss regularly. Most patients find a Waterpik very useful to help with hygiene. Also, always make those scheduled appointments with your implant dentist and hygienist. If you want your teeth to last you several decades, then you must look after them. Other than these standard efforts, you can forget about ever needing anesthetic gels, cleaning pastes, soaking solutions or other denture care products again!
