I Just Had a Tooth Extracted — When Can I Get a Dental Implant?

If you recently had a tooth extracted — or you have one or more extractions scheduled in your near future — you are likely eager to fill in the empty space in your smile as soon as possible. It is probable that your dentist will recommend dental implants as the best way to rebuild your lost dentition; they have countless benefits! But when can you get them? This blog post discusses some different possible timelines for placing dental implants after a tooth extraction.

Immediate Implant Placement

In some cases, an implant can be placed right after an extraction — possibly even during the same appointment. This option might be open to you if you are free of active gum disease, have a healthy jawbone, and meet other criteria for dental implant surgery.

Early Implant Placement

Early implant placement, also known as immediate-delayed placement, usually happens two or three months after extractions. This waiting period allows your gums to heal following tooth removal. If you have any infections in your mouth, such as gum disease, those will also need to be taken care of before your implant surgery.

Because immediate-delayed placement happens fairly soon following extractions, it usually takes place before the jawbone has experienced significant resorption. This means that in many cases, there is no need for a bone graft to fortify and enlarge the jaw.

Delayed Implant Placement

Delayed implant placement occurs three or more months after extractions. This is usually necessary if severe gum disease or other problems have seriously damaged the tissue where a dental implant would be placed. You might require a bone graft or other restorative procedures before your mouth is healthy enough to support your new teeth. After your jawbone and gums are healthy, your implant dentist may approve you to move forward with rebuilding your smile.

Plan Ahead and Act Promptly

It is best to start planning for dental implants as early as possible, even before your tooth extraction. Let your dental team know that you are interested in implants, and they will begin to design your treatment plan. During your extractions, they are likely to perform socket preservation, a type of bone graft that helps to keep the jawbone strong. It may pave the way for expedited implant placement.

But what if it has already been a while since your tooth extractions? It would be smart to schedule an implant consultation in the near future. The longer your wait, the more your jawbone is likely to deteriorate, which increases the chance that a bone graft will be necessary.

Dental implants are a remarkable treatment — but placing them requires meticulous planning. Your dentist will carefully consider all relevant factors before they determine the best time for you to move ahead with your tooth replacement journey.

Meet the Practice

Dr. Makadia has over 30 years of experience in dentistry. He has completed advanced training in various aspects of dental implant care. He combines state-of-the-art technology with a gentle touch to ensure that patients enjoy the most comfortable experience possible. To learn more about him and what to expect with implant-supported tooth replacement, contact our office at 631-405-4390.