Let me share a few tips on how to plan and prepare for one of the most advanced implant procedures available: full-arch dental implants, often referred to as “Teeth in a Day.” In this procedure, the remaining teeth are removed, dental implants are placed, and a fixed temporary restoration is delivered on the same day as surgery.

1. Make Sure Proper Digital Planning Is Completed

Before surgery, your dentist should obtain a CT scan and a digital intraoral scan. This digital planning process is essential for designing the procedure, determining the ideal implant positions, selecting the appropriate implant type, and fabricating a 3D-printed temporary restoration in advance.

Comprehensive digital planning helps streamline the procedure, reduce surgical time, and improve precision. The result is less time in the chair and a smoother recovery.

2. Consider Treating One Jaw at a Time

While it is possible to complete both arches in a single surgery—often requiring up to eight hours—we generally recommend treating one jaw at a time. These procedures typically take three to four hours and are scheduled one to two weeks apart.

This approach is often easier on patients, allows for a more comfortable recovery, and helps support predictable outcomes.

3. Prepare for Your Post-Surgical Diet

Before surgery, be sure you understand the dietary guidelines and have the appropriate foods available at home.

We typically recommend a liquid diet for the first 24 hours after surgery, followed by a soft-food diet. It is important to maintain a soft-food diet throughout the healing period, which is usually about eight weeks.

Think of dental implants like any other major surgical procedure. If you had a hip replacement, you would not start running the week after surgery. Instead, you would gradually return to normal activity as healing progresses. Similarly, your implants need time to integrate with the bone, and avoiding hard or chewy foods is critical during this period.

4. Have Your Medications Ready Before Surgery

Be sure to fill all prescribed medications before your procedure. These may include antibiotics and medications to help manage discomfort during recovery.

Having everything on hand beforehand allows you to focus on rest and healing rather than making trips to the pharmacy after surgery.

5. Choose an Experienced, Board-Certified Prosthodontist

Whenever possible, consider having your treatment performed by a board-certified prosthodontist with advanced training in implant surgery and full-mouth rehabilitation.

This can allow all aspects of treatment—including extractions, implant placement, bone grafting (if needed), temporary restorations, and final restorations—to be coordinated by a single provider and team. In many cases, an in-house laboratory can further improve efficiency, communication, and attention to detail throughout the process.

Final Thoughts

Careful planning and preparation can make a significant difference in the success of your full-arch implant treatment and your overall experience. By understanding the process, following your surgeon’s instructions, and preparing ahead of time, you can help ensure a smoother recovery and excellent long-term results.

We hope this information is helpful as you plan for your procedure. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more educational videos on dental implants, restorative dentistry, and oral health.