I got All on 4 implants after wearing full dentures for 15 years and seeing my face gradually drop and make me look 10 years older. I knew dental implants were the answer so I spoke with my general dentist and she referred me to 2 different specialists for consultations. My dentist and I worked together to decide which specialist really sounded like he was interested in me and my situation. I made the final decision with my dentist’s help. I thought I would need bone grafting with all of the bone shrinkage until I learned about All-On-4 implants. It seemed like an answer from above but now I’m beginning to wonder if it was actually a curse. I’ve had the implants for 5 weeks. I’m still in pain, still dizzy, and still nauseated. Of course I called the specialist. He examined my implants and asked me to follow up in 2 weeks. Meanwhile I’ve lost 15 pounds. Yes, I wanted to lose weight but not lightning fast. I do want to be able to eat. Does this 2 week waiting period sound valid? What else could I do to speed things along? Jordan
Jordan – In short, we recommend that you get a second opinion for your All-On-4 dental implants. You should not be experiencing the symptoms you describe. Your description indicates you have an infection or another condition that is making you dizzy and sick. You shouldn’t have the pain you describe either. You need to act quickly to avoid dental implant failure.
We’re not sure why your dentist would recommend a two-week waiting period. If anything, you are likely to get worse. Your symptoms should have prompted the specialist to take diagnostic studies or consult with another specialist if he is unsure of what’s causing the problem.
While You’re Waiting for an All-On-4 Second Opinion
- Meanwhile, it’s important that you get enough nutrients. If your body is trying to fight an infection, it will struggle without good nutrition.
- Even if you have to eat soft foods, soften protein in a blender, or drink nutritious shakes, your intake is important.
- If your condition worsens over the next day or two before you can see another implant specialist, schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor. He or she can tell if you have an infection. Your doctor will also give you suggestions on how to build up your strength with proper nutrition.
- Keep your general dentist informed of what’s going on.
Don’t wait two weeks to get help.
This post is sponsored by Naperville board-certified prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca