How to Maintain Your Definitive All-on-4 Prosthesis

by Dr. Davide Romeo, Prosthodontist at Milano Dental Studio | Manhattan, NY

how to maintain your definitive all-on-4 prosthesis

Congratulations — you’ve completed your All-on-4 treatment and now have your final, custom-designed fixed bridge in place. This definitive prosthesis is designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth. With the right care, it can serve you well for many years.

Here’s how to keep your All-on-4 prosthesis clean, functional, and long-lasting.

1. Brush at Least Twice Daily

Although your bridge is not made of natural teeth, plaque and bacteria can still accumulate around the gums and implants.

  • Use a soft-bristle or electric toothbrush to brush around the prosthesis, especially at the gumline.
  •  Brush at least two times per day — ideally after meals.
  •  Consider a non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the prosthesis material.

2. Clean Underneath the Bridge

This is the most important and often overlooked step. Food debris and bacteria can collect under the fixed bridge, causing inflammation or infection if not properly cleaned.

Recommended tools:

  • Water flosser (e.g., Waterpik): Use daily to flush under the bridge.
  • Interdental brushes or floss threaders: Use if recommended by your provider to access tight areas.
  • Sulcus brushes: A small-headed brush ideal for cleaning under the bridge margins.

Our team at Milano Dental Studio will show you exactly how to clean based on your individual case and prosthesis design.

3. Use Antimicrobial Rinses (If Recommended)

Depending on your risk of inflammation or peri-implant disease, Dr. Romeo may advise:

  • Chlorhexidine rinse: Short-term use during inflammation.
  • Over-the-counter antimicrobial rinses: For long-term plaque control.

Do not use chlorhexidine long-term without supervision, as it may stain or irritate tissues.

4. Be Mindful of What You Eat

Your definitive prosthesis is strong, but it’s not indestructible.

  • Avoid biting extremely hard foods (ice, bones, hard candies).
  • Do not use your teeth as tools to open packages.
  • Sticky or tough foods (like caramel or taffy) should be minimized.

With normal use, you can enjoy most foods — just use common sense and moderation.

5. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Even though you no longer have natural teeth, routine maintenance visits are still essential:

We may recommend:

  • Professional cleanings around the implants and bridge
  • Clinical exams to monitor bone health, tissue response, and bite
  • X-rays as needed to check implant integration

We typically recommend checkups every 6 months, though some patients may benefit from quarterly maintenance.

6. Watch for Warning Signs

Call us promptly if you notice:

  • Bleeding, swelling, or tenderness around the gums
  • Bad taste or odor under the prosthesis
  • Loosening of screws or components
  • Cracks or chipping in the prosthetic teeth

The earlier we catch an issue, the easier it is to resolve.

Final Thought: Your Smile is an Investment — Protect It

With good hygiene, smart habits, and professional follow-up, your All-on-4 prosthesis can give you a confident, worry-free smile for many years to come.

Have Questions?

Dr. Davide Romeo and the team at Milano Dental Studio in Manhattan specialize in the long-term success of full-arch implant patients. Whether you had your All-on-4 treatment done here or elsewhere, we’re happy to help you maintain your results.

Meet Your Expert in Smile Restoration: Dr. Davide Romeo

Dr. Davide Romeo is more than a provider—he’s a pioneer in full-arch implant rehabilitation. A specialist in prosthodontics, he has taught, researched, and published internationally on the All-on-4 concept. His reputation for precision, artistry, and compassionate care has made Milano Dental Studio a trusted destination for patients across New York and beyond.

With Dr. Romeo, you’re not just getting a set of teeth—you’re getting a partner in your journey back to health, confidence, and joy.

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