Tooth loss can dampen your confidence in your smile, affect your ability to chew foods, and lead to other unpleasant consequences. If you need to get one or more teeth extracted, it is only natural if you are eager to receive dental implants ASAP! But how long might you need to wait between your extraction procedure and your implant surgery? This blog post explains a few possible tooth replacement timelines.
Immediate Implant Placement
In some circumstances, your dentist might be able to place a dental implant immediately after removing a tooth — during the same appointment, in fact! This might be an option for you if you do not have active gum disease, have adequate bone density in your jaw, and are free of other conditions that might adversely affect your implants.
If you need to get all of the teeth in your upper or lower dental arch removed, you might even be a candidate for All-on-4 (also known as Teeth in a Day). During this streamlined process, all teeth are extracted, dental implants are placed, and a temporary denture is secured on top of them — all in a matter of mere hours!
Early Implant Placement
Early implant placement, also known as immediate-delayed placement, usually happens 2 – 3 months after extractions. During this waiting period, your gums have a chance to heal. It also allows time for your dental team to take care of any infections, such as gum disease, that might have contributed to your initial tooth loss.
Because early implant placement takes place shortly after extractions, it can help you to avoid the need for a bone graft. (A longer wait might allow the bone to deteriorate, making it incapable of supporting implants and making it necessary for your care team to graft additional bone material onto your jaw.)
Delayed Implant Placement
Delayed implant placement occurs 3 months or longer after extractions. This might be necessary if you have severe gum disease or need tissue grafts to strengthen your jawbone.
Plan Ahead and Act Promptly
Ideally, you should talk to your dentist about tooth replacement options before your extraction procedure. They can then plan to replace your lost teeth as soon as possible.
If your teeth have already been removed, it would be wise to attend a dental implant consultation in the very near future. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that you will require a bone graft or other complex preparatory procedures.
Dental implants are the best way to replace lost teeth, but they have a complex treatment process that requires diligent planning. Talk to your dentist to find out how long it might be before you can once again enjoy a complete smile.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Andrew R. Glynn and our Reynoldsburg dental team are proud to provide dental implant services. If you are interested in tooth replacement, we are ready to consult with you and estimate your treatment timeline. To learn more about how we may be able to serve you, get in touch with us at 614-864-4618.