To help you recover properly and minimize complications after your All-on-4 dental implant surgery in Oak Lawn, Illinois, it is important to follow all post-operative instructions carefully. Proper care during the healing period will support successful osseointegration and long-term implant success. Our dentists, oral surgeon and team are here to support you throughout your recovery, so please reach out to Oak Dental Associates at 708-422-1900 with any questions or concerns, or to make a follow-up appointment with Dr. Chris Pallotto, Dr. Duyen Tran or Dr. Patrick Carroll.
Immediate Care After Surgery
Keep the gauze pads placed at the surgical site for at least 30 to 60 minutes after your procedure. Apply gentle pressure by biting down to help control bleeding. If bleeding persists, replace the gauze and continue to apply pressure. Avoid rinsing, spitting or touching the surgical area on the day of your procedure. You may resume gentle rinsing the following day using warm saltwater (half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of water) every few hours.
Medications & Pain Management
Take all prescribed medications as directed. Antibiotics should be completed in full to reduce the risk of infection. For discomfort, you may use over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, unless advised otherwise by your doctor. If stronger medication has been prescribed, follow those instructions exactly.
Oral Hygiene & Cleaning
You may begin gently brushing your teeth the day after surgery, taking care to avoid the surgical site. Do not use an electric toothbrush or water flosser near the implants until cleared by our dentists. Continue rinsing with saltwater after meals and before bed for at least two weeks to promote healing and keep the area clean.
Dietary Guidelines
For the first few days after surgery, follow a soft-food or liquid diet. Good options include smoothies, yogurt, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes and soups. Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy or chewy foods. Refrain from using a straw, as suction may disrupt healing. As your comfort improves, gradually reintroduce more foods as recommended by your dental team.
Activity, Swelling & Rest
You may experience swelling, bruising or mild bleeding for several days. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your face in 15-minute intervals during the first 48 hours. After that, switch to moist heat to support circulation and healing. Keep your head elevated while resting and avoid strenuous activity for at least 48 to 72 hours.
Other Important Instructions
Do not wear any removable prosthetics or dentures unless specifically directed by our dentists. Refrain from smoking or using tobacco products, as they significantly increase the risk of implant failure. Alcohol should also be avoided during the early healing period. If a healing abutment becomes loose or falls out, contact our office immediately.
If you have any questions about your recovery or experience unusual symptoms such as severe pain, excessive bleeding, fever or swelling that worsens after a few days, please contact our office promptly. We are committed to helping you heal comfortably and successfully.