Losing teeth is never a happy occasion but getting dental implants can certainly help you recover your confidence quickly! They’re an excellent solution for tooth loss, but they also require specific conditions to be successful. So, how long after extraction can you expect to wait until you get your implants? It’s complicated. Continue reading to see what factors come into play for a successful implant and see why timing matters.
When Can Dental Implants Be Placed After Extraction?
Unfortunately, as with most dental procedures, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. When you lose a tooth or have it extracted, it can drastically affect the surrounding bone and soft tissues. Without a proper examination by a trained professional, it’s impossible to tell if you’re ready for the procedure. In general, there are three different time windows that dentists can aim for: immediate, early, and delayed placement.
Immediate Placement
In some cases, your dentist may place the implant immediately after extracting your tooth. However, conditions need to be just right for success. If your gums and jawbone are healthy and there’s no sign of infection, you may be a good candidate for immediate placement.
This option offers the benefit of expedience, minimizing treatment time and bone resorption. As long as your jawbone has enough density after the extraction, this method may be your best bet.
Early Placement
If immediate placement isn’t possible, your dentist may recommend “early” implant placement, which typically occurs 4 to 8 weeks after extraction. This allows some time for the structures around the implant site to heal while still placing the fixture before there’s significant bone loss.
Delayed Placement for Dental Implants
In cases where bone grafting or extensive healing is required, you might need to wait several months before getting your implant. This is referred to as delayed implant placement and typically happens 3 to 6 months after extraction.
While not ideal time-wise, delayed placement can be beneficial. It ensures the implant has a stable foundation, especially if the extraction site needs additional time to regenerate healthy bone and gum tissue.
While it’s true that it’s better to replace a tooth sooner rather than later, there are many variables to consider. Your dentist will work with you to create a treatment plan that fits your needs and ensures the best possible outcome for your implant, no matter when it’s placed!
About the Practice
If you need dental implants, Dr. Christina Papageorgiou and Dr. Paola A. Buckley have the training and technology to make it happen. They’ve helped countless patients over the years receive quality implants to boost their confidence and restore function to their smiles! Call (508) 545-1126 to schedule a dental implant consultation at Papageorgiou Dental Associates or visit our website to learn more about our services.