Temporary Fixed Denture Post Op Instructions

Congratulations on your journey to great dental health! Now that you have received your temporary fixed denture, it’s important to follow specific post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and long-term success. While you have already been provided with general guidelines, these instructions are tailored to your specific dental treatment.

To minimize discomfort and reduce swelling, take all prescribed medications as directed. Follow our post-op pain management regimen, which includes ibuprofen and Tylenol:

• Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin): Helps reduce swelling and manage pain.
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Provides additional pain relief.

This regimen will make the post-operative period more comfortable, especially during the first few days.

2. Diet Guidelines: Liquid & Mushy Foods for 4 Months

For the next four months, you must strictly follow a liquid/mush diet. This may seem like a long time, but it is a critical step in ensuring proper healing. Unlike traditional dentures, your temporary fixed denture is supported by implants, and chewing too soon can cause implant failure. Do not chew solid foods until your doctor advises it is safe.

Recommended Foods:
✔️ Protein shakes, milkshakes, yogurt, applesauce
✔️ Mashed fruits, soft eggs, oatmeal, pancakes with butter & syrup
✔️ Soft soups, crackers (soaked), overcooked vegetables, pasta

Foods to Avoid:
❌ Chips, nuts, pizza, chicken wings
❌ Bread (especially crust), tough meats, chewy or crunchy foods

3. Home Care & Oral Hygiene

For the first three weeks, follow these hygiene instructions:

• Use a prescription mouth rinse twice daily.
• Gently clean your denture with a soft-bristle toothbrush.
• Rinse with salt water (recipe available on your post-op form and our website).
• Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes such as Scope or Listerine.

After your three-week check-up, you’ll need a water pick to clean your denture and the surrounding tissue daily. This helps prevent infection and ensures long-term implant success.

4. Implant Maintenance and Long-Term Care

After your final restoration is placed, periodic implant maintenance will be necessary. Routine follow-ups and professional cleanings will help ensure the longevity of your implants.

5. Lifestyle Restrictions: Avoid Smoking & Alcohol

To promote proper healing, avoid the following:

• 🚫 Smoking, vaping, and smokeless tobacco
• 🚫 Marijuana and alcoholic beverages

These substances delay healing and increase the risk of infection. This is a great opportunity to quit smoking if you’ve been considering it!

6. When to Call Us

If you experience any of the following, contact our office immediately:

• Excessive swelling or pain beyond normal healing
• Bad taste or odor coming from the denture site
• Any signs of infection (fever, inflammation, or unusual discomfort)
• Looseness or movement in the denture

We are committed to making this the best dental experience possible for you. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to call us!

Thank you for trusting us with your dental care—we’re honored to be part of your journey to a healthier, more confident smile!