When you have a tooth extracted, it’s best to have the gap filled as soon as you can. Your dentist will likely recommend dental implants as a way to replace both the root and crown portion of the removed tooth. But when exactly will you be able to get dental implants after tooth extraction? The answer will be different for every patient, but the following post can give you an idea of what to expect.
Immediate Implant Placement
Sometimes you might be able to get a dental implant on the same day as your tooth extraction. This is referred to as immediate implant placement. To be a candidate for this type of placement, you need to have a mouth that’s free of gum disease (or any other oral health issues that increase the risk of implant failure), and your jaw must already have enough bone density to support an implant post.
Early Implant Placement
Early implant placement is typically performed two or three months after tooth extraction. The delay is to give your gums time to heal. If you have an oral infection of any kind, that might also be addressed during the waiting period. The key point of early implant placement is that it takes place before a significant amount of bone loss has occurred, meaning you won’t need to have a bone graft performed.
Delayed Implant Placement
Delayed implant placement refers to when implant surgery is performed more than three months after extraction. This is usually done if you have severe gum disease or extensive bone loss that needs to be taken care of before you can get dental implants. You may have to undergo periodontal therapy, bone grafting, and other preliminary procedures. Once your mouth and jaw are healthy enough, your dentist can schedule your appointment for dental implant surgery.
Which Type of Placement is Right for You?
How long you need to wait for dental implants is completely dependent on the state of your oral health. To know what type of placement is best for you, you’ll need to speak with your dentist. After a thorough examination, they can give you an estimate of how long it will take to get implants after extraction. They will also go over the types of preliminary treatment you might need so that you aren’t caught off guard later on.
No matter how long it takes to get dental implants, the benefits that they have to offer make them worth the wait. If you’re having a tooth removed soon, don’t forget to ask your dentist about the dental implant services they offer and whether you might be a good candidate for the procedure.
About the Author
Dr. TJ Sprague earned his dental degree from the University of Oklahoma Health Science Center. Since his graduation, he has received advanced training in a variety of specialized dental procedures, including dental implant placement and restoration. At Berkshire Dental Group in Broken Arrow, Dr. Sprague can perform the entire dental implant procedure in-house after tooth extraction. To schedule a consultation, visit his website or call (918) 250-9528.