If you’re missing a full arch of teeth, then there have been some big changes in your life. Communicating has become more difficult while the ability to eat your favorite foods seems like a far-gone memory. Thankfully, you’re not doomed to continue living like this. With all-on-4 dental implants in Reston, you can regain the life you once had. Dr. Wayne Myles says that before you have the procedure done, though, it’s important to know how to maintain your new implants properly. Read on to receive some expert advice.
WHAT IS A DENTAL IMPLANT?
Let’s start by identifying what an implant is. It’s a surgically inserted titanium post that attaches to your underlying jawbone and acts as a replacement for missing roots. In doing so, it reestablishes the tension necessary to trigger new bone cell development. This then ensures that your facial structure has the support it needs and that a restoration or prosthetic can successfully be attached.
THE ALL-ON-4 DENTAL IMPLANT METHOD EXPLAINED
The all-on-4 procedure is a type of dental implant placement that allows patients to have an entire arch replaced in the least invasive manner possible. If your dentist were to take the conventional route for replacing all the missing teeth along a single arch, that would require several implants, which is excessive.
The all-on-4 method uses four strategically placed implants, which are inserted at specific angles that allow them to support an implant-retained prosthetic along a single arch in the most efficient manner. This amounts to a faster recovery and a fully restored smile.
HOW TO CARE FOR ALL-ON-4 IMPLANTS
Once you’re restored, how should you go about caring for your new fixtures? Here are some easy tips:
- Relax – Although the all-on-4 implant procedure is not considered a major surgery, it still requires that you allow your mouth to heal after it’s done. So take it easy after the procedure by following all of your dentist’s instructions, and you’ll soon be back to performing all of your normal functions.
- Eat the Right Foods – After the procedure is done, you can consume protein shakes, smoothies and other soft foods to get vital nutrients in without risking damage to your implants.
- Manage Your Healing – After the implants are placed, you may experience some slight discomfort, swelling and light bleeding. By taking any medications as prescribed by your dentist, you can get the relief you need. You can also insert a cotton gauze into your mouth and bite down gently to relieve discomfort and stop bleeding.
- Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene – Finally, it’s important to gently clean your mouth after the procedure is done. Using the softest toothbrush available, you should brush your teeth and floss using a waterpik daily to remove any harmful bacteria that could cause an infection.
With the help of your implant dentist in Reston, you can reap the full benefits of the all-on-4 implant method and enjoy the results for years to come. So get ready for a life of eating your favorite foods, speaking normally and smiling with confidence!
