If you’re missing an entire arch of teeth, it can be difficult to complete tasks you once found easy. This includes chewing your food thoroughly, speaking clearly, and smiling with confidence. Fortunately, if you have suffered from extensive tooth loss, you are likely to make a good candidate for all-on-4 dental implants. After surgery, there is a recovery period where you will need to be careful about the types of foods and drinks that you can enjoy. Continue reading to learn what you can expect.
Directly After Surgery
Immediately after your all-on-4 dental implant placement procedure, you should be especially careful when it comes to eating. You want to give the area a chance to heal so you can give your implants the best possible chance at success. Up to a few weeks, you could experience some soreness in your mouth, jaw, and through, so you should stick to a liquid diet. Here are some foods that you may want to be stocked up on:
• Beef, chicken, or vegetable broth
• Pureed vegetable or cream-based soups
• Milkshakes
• Meal replacement shakes
• Ice cream
• Frozen yogurt
2 Weeks to 3 Months Following Your Surgery
After the immediate healing period is done, you will be able to make the transition to soft foods. Since your jaw is still healing and your implants are going through the fusion process, it’s important that you aren’t applying too much pressure to the implants. You should avoid any foods that are hard, chewy, or crunchy. Here are some things you can enjoy:
• Scrambled eggs
• Soft cheeses
• Sloppy joe meat
• Chili
• Hummus
• Tofu
• Soft breads
• Pasta
• Quinoa
• Oatmeal
• Mashed potatoes
3 Tips to Assist Your All-on-4 Recovery Period
Here are some tips to help you recover more smoothly after your procedure:
• Invest in a food blender or food processor. During your first few weeks or recovery, you can enjoy additional foods and flavors if you have an easy way to blend foods into a consistency that won’t aggravate the healing site.
• Plan ahead of time! By making a list and shopping beforehand, you can stock up on everything you need to stay comfortable during your time of healing.
• Get plenty of rest. By getting lots of quality sleep, it will be easier for your body to get back to its normal self.
For any additional suggestions, don’t hesitate to ask your oral surgeon. By being patient and taking precautions as you heal, you’ll be enjoying your complete smile in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Jeff Lee earned his dental doctorate from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. He completed a four-year residency in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center before serving in the United States Navy aboard the USS George Washington. To learn more about all-on-4 or to schedule a consultation, visit his website or call (740) 236-9392.