Embarking on the All-On-X (AOX) dental implant treatment is a transformative step towards regaining a full and functional smile. This procedure not only enhances your aesthetic appearance but also significantly improves your quality of life. Undergoing the implant surgery is not the end, it is simply the beginning of your new smile journey. If you’re considering AOX or have already scheduled your procedure, here are some important aspects to consider about the healing process, maintenance, and how to best care for your new smile.
Healing Process After AOX Treatment
The All-On-X procedure is a comprehensive solution that involves placing four or more implants in your jaw to support a full arch of teeth. Here’s what you can generally expect during the healing phase:
- Time off work: recovery time is quite individualised; some patients return to non-strenuous work within a few days. If your job involves physical labour, it might be wise to take a week off to ensure your body has enough time to heal properly.
- Diet Adjustments: Immediately following your surgery, it’s crucial to stick to a soft or liquid diet for approximately three months to avoid putting pressure on your new implants. Foods such as soups, yogurts, smoothies, and mashed vegetables are ideal. Gradually, you’ll be able to introduce more solid foods as your comfort and healing progress, as guided by your implant dentist.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Maintaining your All-On-X implants involves regularly scheduled reviews to ensure proper healing, and regular checkups and cleanings once healed. Routine visits are essential in optimising the health of your implants, which includes monitoring healing and assessing hygiene practices.
Ongoing maintenance is crucial in ensuring the longevity of your implants, which involves professional cleaning of your implants and assessment of current oral hygiene practices. These annual checkups cost approximately $400 for a single arch and $700 for a double arch each visit, where pricing is comparable to the upkeep of natural teeth.
To ensure the longevity of your All-On-X implants, consider the following tips:
- Good Oral Hygiene: Using a water flosser is beneficial in providing targeted yet gentle cleaning around AOX implants, reaching hard to access areas. Coupling this with regularly scheduled checkups with the dentist, this can promote longevity of your implants.
- Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods: While your AOX implants are designed to be durable, it’s best to avoid overly hard or sticky foods that could potentially damage the prosthesis.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking can interfere with the healing process and negatively affect the longevity of your dental implants. If possible, seek support to quit smoking before undergoing the implant procedure.
- Avoid teeth grinding: If you grind or clench your teeth at night, consider getting an individually tailored night guard to protect your implants.
Conclusion
All-On-X dental implants are a significant investment in your dental health and overall well-being. By understanding the healing process, adhering to recommended dietary adjustments, and following proper maintenance routines, you can ensure the success and longevity of your treatment. At Glenferrie Dental, we are committed to supporting you throughout your dental journey with personalised care and expert advice. If you have any questions or need further assistance in commencing your AOX journey, please do not hesitate to contact us at (03) 9818 1930 for a complimentary implant consultation. Together, we will keep your smile bright for years to come!