The All-on-X Procedure: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Choosing All-on-X dental implants is not only a clinical decision—it’s a personal one. Understanding the steps involved can help you approach the process with clarity and confidence. At Coldy Dent, we believe that well-informed patients experience less anxiety, make better decisions, and feel more at ease throughout their treatment.

This guide outlines the key phases of All-on-X treatment at our clinic, from your first consultation to the final restoration. While every treatment plan is individualized, the general structure remains consistent, ensuring a smooth and supported experience from beginning to end.

Before the Procedure: Preparation and Planning

Initial Consultation and Clinical Assessment

Your All-on-X journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation led by Dr. Manol Ivchev. This initial visit includes:

A detailed discussion of your medical and dental history
Assessment of your current oral health status
Preliminary imaging to examine bone structure and anatomy
A chance to ask questions and review possible treatment directions

This consultation allows us to fully understand your expectations and needs while determining whether All-on-X is the right solution for you. We take time to explain your options clearly and answer every question with care.

Diagnostic Imaging and Functional Testing

If you are a good candidate, we move forward with advanced diagnostics to plan your case with precision. In addition to imaging and functional analysis, we take a holistic approach by evaluating your general health status. This includes a full medical anamnesis and, when necessary, targeted blood tests to assess systemic factors that could influence healing and implant integration. At Coldy Dent, we use a combination of clinical tools and systemic evaluations, including:

CBCT scanning to capture high-resolution 3D images of your bone and surrounding anatomy
Digital impressions for accurate, comfortable modeling of your bite and prosthetic space
Condylography to assess jaw joint movement and function
Occlusal analysis to evaluate bite balance and muscle coordination
Laboratory blood testing when medically indicated, to assess systemic health markers relevant to healing and bone integration

This comprehensive diagnostic phase allows us to anticipate potential challenges and plan implant placement in a way that supports both structural integrity and long-term function.

Creating a Personalized Treatment Plan

Once diagnostics are complete, your custom treatment plan is developed. This includes:

Choosing the optimal number and placement of implants
Designing your provisional and final prosthetic restorations
Planning for any preparatory procedures, if needed
Outlining your anesthesia or sedation preferences
Preparing a surgical guide for precise implant placement

We review this plan with you in detail, ensuring you understand the rationale behind every step. Pre-operative instructions are also provided to help you feel prepared and supported as your surgery day approaches.

The Day of Surgery: Implant Placement and Immediate Function

Arrival and Preparation

On the day of your procedure, you’ll be welcomed by our clinical team and guided through each step with care. Before surgery begins, we will:

Review your pre-operative instructions
Confirm your medical status and comfort level
Administer your personalized anesthesia or sedation
Ensure you are relaxed and ready for the procedure

Every aspect of the surgical day is designed to maintain your comfort and safety. Our approach allows you to focus on healing while we take care of the technical precision.

Surgical Placement of Implants

The surgical procedure typically takes between 2 and 3 hours per arch. Using a digitally prepared surgical guide, Dr. Ivchev follows a minimally invasive, highly controlled sequence:

Remaining compromised teeth are removed, if present
The jawbone is carefully prepared for implant placement
Four to six implants are positioned in optimal locations to maximize stability
Special abutments are placed onto the implants to support the temporary bridge
The surgical site is closed with sutures as needed

Throughout the procedure, our monitoring protocols ensure your safety and well-being. Minimally invasive techniques and precise planning help reduce postoperative discomfort and support faster recovery.

Immediate Temporary Prosthesis

One of the defining aspects of the All-on-X procedure is that you will leave the clinic with fixed, functional teeth the same day. This is made possible by:

Attaching a custom-fabricated temporary bridge to the freshly placed implants
Verifying the bite and making necessary chairside adjustments
Providing instructions on how to care for your temporary prosthesis during healing

This temporary restoration allows you to smile, speak, and eat soft foods while your implants integrate with the bone. Though not final, it is designed to look natural and offer immediate stability.

The First Week: Recovery and Initial Healing

What to Expect

After the procedure, some mild swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal. These typically peak within the first 48–72 hours, then begin to improve. Most patients experience:

Moderate discomfort, manageable with prescribed or over-the-counter medication
Facial swelling, particularly around the cheeks and chin
Mild bruising depending on the extent of the procedure
Fatigue and a need for rest in the initial days

We provide detailed post-operative care instructions and remain available for any questions during this early recovery phase.

Managing Discomfort

Our goal is to make your recovery as smooth as possible. Most patients find that:

Prescription medication is only needed for the first few days
Anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen are effective after day three
Cold compresses help reduce swelling in the first 24–48 hours
Rest, hydration, and elevation support faster recovery

You will receive written instructions and be contacted for follow-up support to ensure you’re healing as expected.

Nutritional Guidance

During the initial healing period, a soft diet is recommended to protect your implants and avoid unnecessary pressure on the healing bone. Commonly recommended foods include:

Smoothies, soups, and blended vegetables
Mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and soft pasta
Yogurt, soft fish, and protein shakes

We’ll provide a comprehensive list of what to eat and avoid in the first week and beyond, helping to support both your healing and your overall nutrition.

Hygiene and Post-Surgical Care

Good hygiene is essential to prevent complications and support healing. During this early period, we’ll guide you in:

Using a prescribed antimicrobial rinse
Gently cleaning around your prosthesis with soft brushes
Performing saltwater rinses as directed
Avoiding flossing or touching the surgical sites during the initial healing phase

Our team will demonstrate cleaning techniques and follow up with you to ensure your routine is safe and effective.

You’re in Good Hands at Coldy Dent

Choosing implant treatment is a significant decision, and we’re here to ensure you feel informed, heard, and cared for every step of the way.

At Coldy Dent, we combine advanced technology with experienced clinical judgment to guide you through each stage of care with clarity, precision, and genuine attention to you comfort.

From your first visit through recovery and long-term maintenance, you’ll be supported by a team that values trust, safety, and open communication.

If you’re considering All-on-X dental implants, we invite you to reach out. Our team is ready to answer your questions and help you take the next step toward a stable, confident smile—on a timeline and in a way that feels right for you.