Presenting Clinical Problem
A patient presented to Greenvale Dental House with several failing teeth in the upper arch and existing dental work that was no longer meeting their needs. They had been relying on short-term fixes and wanted a longer-term solution that fitted around a busy work schedule.
- Several failing and missing upper teeth
- Difficulty chewing comfortably
- Reliance on short-term dental fixes
- Frustration with removable appliances
Treatment Approach
The clinical team carried out a full oral assessment with 3D digital planning, then discussed a fixed full-arch All-On-4 Plus restoration for the upper jaw. Digital planning — related to digital smile design — was used to map implant positions before surgery.
- Full oral assessment and 3D digital planning
- Extraction of the compromised upper teeth
- Placement of four implants in the upper jaw
- Fitting of a custom-made fixed bridge
All-On-4 involves oral surgery, so a healing and recovery period follows. Suitability, healing time and results vary between people, and the treatment carries the usual surgical risks — a clinical consultation is needed to assess whether it is appropriate.
Clinical Outcome
The treatment was staged around the patient’s work commitments. After healing, the fixed bridge restored function and had a secure, natural feel. This is one patient’s experience; recovery and outcomes differ from person to person.
What recovery can involve
After implant placement it is common to have some swelling, bruising and tenderness for a few days, managed with the aftercare your dentist provides. A soft diet is usually advised early on, with firmer foods reintroduced as healing progresses, and the final bridge is fitted after the implants integrate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is recovery like after All-On-4 implants?
Most people have some swelling and tenderness for several days and are advised to eat softer foods while the implants heal. Your dentist will give you specific aftercare instructions and review your healing over the following months.
How long before you can eat normally?
A soft diet is usually recommended in the early weeks, with firmer foods gradually reintroduced. Fuller function generally returns once the implants have integrated and the final bridge is fitted, which varies between individuals.
