Preparing for surgery
Proper preparation for All-on-X (All-on-4 / All-on-6) surgery affects the course of the procedure, patient comfort and healing speed. The following guidelines cover the period immediately before surgery — medication details are discussed individually during your consultation.
- Mouth rinse — starting the day before surgery, rinse your mouth with a chlorhexidine mouthwash 3 times a day for 1 minute. Rinsing reduces the bacterial count in the oral cavity and lowers the risk of post-operative infection.
- Meal before surgery — eat a nutritious meal on the day of surgery.
- Comfortable clothing — wear loose, comfortable clothes. Front-opening (buttons or zipper) is recommended so you don't have to pull clothing over your head after the procedure.
- Transport after surgery — you will not be able to drive after the procedure due to muscle relaxant medication. Please arrange transport home in advance (companion, taxi).
Medication before and after surgery
The medication protocol (antibiotic, anti-inflammatory drugs, gastric protection, probiotic) is determined individually by dr Sawicki and provided to the patient in writing. Dosages depend on overall health status, existing medications and the planned scope of surgery.
The first 48 hours after surgery
The first two days after surgery mark the beginning of the healing process. Proper care during this period significantly affects recovery comfort and minimises the risk of complications.
- Cold compresses Apply cold compresses to the surgical area every hour for 10 minutes. Breaks between compresses are essential — continuous cooling can cause frostbite to the skin. Wrap the compress in a thin cloth — do not apply ice directly to the skin.
- Mouth rinse Continue gentle rinsing with a chlorhexidine mouthwash 3 times a day for 1 minute. Do not rinse vigorously — a gentle swish is sufficient.
- Gel on the surgical site Apply antibacterial gel (Elugel, PerioKIN or Curasept ADS) to the surgical site twice daily. The gel supports healing and protects the tissues from infection.
- Pain Mild discomfort after surgery is normal. For pain relief, dr Sawicki recommends painkillers as outlined on the individual instruction card provided after the procedure.
Swelling and bruising — what to expect
Facial swelling is a natural response to surgery. It peaks on days 2–3 after the procedure — this is normal and should not cause concern. Bruising may also appear on the skin, gradually changing colour and resolving on its own within 7–10 days.
Cold compresses applied during the first 48 hours help limit swelling. After 48 hours, compresses no longer provide additional benefit.
Guidelines for 14 days after surgery
Diet
A soft and semi-liquid diet is required for the first 14 days after surgery. During this period, the implants begin the process of osseointegration (fusing with bone) and should not be exposed to excessive mechanical loading. This applies to All-on-4, All-on-6 and other All-on-X protocols alike.
Recommended foods: cream soups, fruit and vegetable smoothies, yogurt, cottage cheese, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, pasta, well-cooked rice, steamed fish, bananas, avocado.
Avoid: hard foods (nuts, crackers, hard-crusted bread), sticky foods (gummy sweets, caramels), very hot beverages and meals.
What to avoid
Strictly avoid for 14 days:
Smoking — nicotine impairs blood supply to the tissues and inhibits healing. Smoking significantly increases the risk of complications, including implant loss.
Alcohol — alcohol dilates blood vessels, increases the risk of bleeding and weakens the effect of medication.
Chewing gum — mechanical loading during the healing period may negatively affect implant stability.
Drinking through a straw — the negative pressure in the oral cavity may disrupt wound healing.
Physical exercise — sports, gym, running, lifting heavy objects. Exercise raises blood pressure and increases the risk of bleeding and swelling.
Sun exposure — avoid direct sunlight on the face, sauna and hot baths.
Oral hygiene
In the first days after surgery, hygiene relies on rinsing with chlorhexidine mouthwash and applying antibacterial gel. Brushing (natural teeth and temporary bridge) can be resumed carefully after a few days using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Avoid the surgical site until your follow-up appointment.
Follow-up appointment
The first follow-up visit usually takes place 7–10 days after surgery. Dr Sawicki assesses tissue healing, checks implant and temporary bridge stability and removes sutures if needed. Further instructions regarding hygiene and diet are discussed at this appointment.
Further treatment course
After the initial healing period (approx. 2–3 weeks), the patient returns to a normal lifestyle with the temporary bridge. Over the following 3–6 months, osseointegration takes place — the process of implants fusing with bone. During this time, the patient functions normally, gradually expanding the diet to include harder foods.
Once full osseointegration is confirmed, the temporary bridge is replaced with the final prosthesis — a composite bridge on a titanium bar or a zirconia bridge, precisely fitted in terms of aesthetics and occlusion.
Frequently asked questions
How to prepare for All-on-4 surgery?
Starting the day before surgery, rinse your mouth with a chlorhexidine mouthwash 3 times a day for 1 minute. On the day of surgery, eat a nutritious meal and wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. You will not be able to drive after the procedure due to muscle relaxant medication — please arrange transport home.
What to do after All-on-4 surgery?
Apply cold compresses every hour for 10 minutes during the first 48 hours. Rinse your mouth with chlorhexidine mouthwash 3 times daily. Apply antibacterial gel (Elugel, PerioKIN or Curasept ADS) to the surgical site twice daily. Eat only soft, minced or semi-liquid foods. Strictly avoid smoking, alcohol, chewing gum, drinking through a straw, physical exercise and sun exposure.
Will there be swelling after All-on-4 surgery?
Yes — swelling is a natural response to surgery. It peaks on days 2–3. Bruising may also appear on the skin. Both symptoms resolve on their own within several days. Cold compresses during the first 48 hours help reduce swelling.
What can I eat after All-on-4 surgery?
A soft and semi-liquid diet is recommended for the first 14 days — cream soups, smoothies, yogurt, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, pasta, steamed fish. Food should not be hot. Avoid hard, crunchy and sticky products that could overload the freshly placed implants.
When can I return to normal activity after All-on-4 surgery?
Most patients return to everyday activities within a few days. Physical exercise (sports, gym, running) should be avoided for at least 14 days. Driving is not possible on the day of surgery due to the medication administered.
When can I drive after All-on-4 surgery?
Driving is not possible on the day of surgery — muscle relaxant medication impairs concentration and reaction time. The following day, provided you feel well and are not taking medication that affects your ability to drive, you may get behind the wheel again. Please arrive at the clinic with a companion or arrange a taxi for the journey home.