Healing After All-on-4 Implants: What to Expect

Replacing missing teeth with All-on-4 dental implants is a life-changing decision, one that restores both function and confidence. But what happens after the procedure? At Buckhead Oral Surgery Suite in Atlanta, Dr. Jennifer Okhiria and her compassionate team are committed to guiding patients through every step of the recovery process.

Understanding what to expect during healing helps reduce anxiety, fosters peace of mind, and ensures the best possible outcome after All-on-4 implant surgery. Here’s a quick guide to the recovery process, and what you can expect after you restore your smile with full-mouth implants.

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Immediately After Your All-on-4 Implant Surgery

The initial healing phase begins the moment surgery is completed. Thanks to advanced surgical techniques and sedation options offered at Buckhead Oral Surgery Suite, patients often report a comfortable transition out of anesthesia with minimal discomfort.

Dr. Okhiria takes time to personalize each post-op plan, addressing unique health needs and lifestyle factors to promote optimal healing. In the first 24-72 hours, you can expect:

• Mild swelling and bruising, this is normal and typically peaks around day 2-3
• Prescribed pain medication or over-the-counter options to manage discomfort
• Soft diet recommendations to minimize stress on the newly placed implants
• Gentle oral hygiene practices to keep the area clean without disturbing sutures

Dr. Okhiria remains closely involved during this initial phase, ensuring you feel reassured, informed, and supported in every detail of your care.

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The First Two Weeks: Adjusting and Healing

In the days following implant placement, the soft tissue and bone around your implants will begin to heal. During this period, your comfort continues to be a top priority at our Buckhead practice, with follow-up appointments scheduled to monitor healing and progress. During the first couple of weeks, patients will typically experience:

• Improved energy and reduced swelling as healing progresses
• Transitioning from a liquid to a soft food diet, under the guidance of Dr. Okhiria
• Sutures naturally dissolving or being removed in-office
• A temporary denture worn during healing to maintain aesthetics and function

Our team encourages open communication during this phase, building trust and addressing any concerns swiftly, with empathy and professionalism.

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Long-Term Healing and Osseointegration

Over the next several months, your dental implants begin strengthening their bond with the jawbone in a process called “osseintegration.” While healing time varies, Dr. Okhiria’s experience in advanced oral surgery ensures a stable foundation that supports long-lasting implant success. 

Full healing generally takes three to six months, depending on your body's response. Key expectations during this phase include:

• Regular check-ins to assess progress and fine-tune your recovery plan
• Gradual return to normal eating habits, once approved by your surgeon
• Minor changes in sensation or speech as your gums reshape around the implants

At Buckhead Oral Surgery Suite, healing isn’t just physical, it’s emotional. Every patient is treated as a valued individual, with care adapted to support your comfort every step of the way.

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Final Prosthesis Placement and Smile Restoration

The final step in the All-on-4 journey is the removal of your temporary teeth and the final placement of the permanent prosthesis. This custom restoration is meticulously crafted to match your facial features, bite alignment, and aesthetic goals, delivering a natural-looking smile that feels just as good as it looks.

By this time, implants are solidly fused with the bone, ready to support your new teeth with full function. When you return to Buckhead Oral Surgery Suite for your final fitting, you’ll experience:

• A beautifully designed, permanent implant-supported denture
• Enhanced confidence in speaking, eating, and smiling
• Ongoing care and maintenance guidance for long-term implant success

Dr. Okhiria’s focus on thoughtful precision and patient comfort ensures that the final result exceeds expectations, because your smile should be as unique as your journey.

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Schedule an Appointment in Atlanta to Begin Your Healing Journey

If you're preparing for All-on-4 implants or exploring your tooth replacement options, Buckhead Oral Surgery Suite is here to walk with you, every step of the way. Led by Dr. Jennifer Okhiria, Atlanta’s only female- and minority-owned oral surgery practice offers a reassuring blend of advanced expertise and heartfelt care. Call us today at (404) 643-7543 to schedule a personalized consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident you.