There are many reasons someone might need a tooth pulled, like serious damage from an injury or decay that’s too severe to fix. After an extraction, it’s important to replace the missing tooth to maintain a healthy smile and avoid future problems. While there are different replacement options, dental implants are often recommended for their durability and natural look. If you’re considering dental implants after an extraction, it’s important to know how long you should wait before getting them. Keep reading to find out more.
What Are Dental Implants and How Do They Work?
Dental implants are titanium screws placed into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth’s root. During the procedure, your oral surgeon will make a small gum incision to access the jawbone and insert the implant, then stitch up the gums. You’ll receive a local anesthetic to ensure you’re comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.
Over the next four to six months, the implant will bond with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration, making it strong and durable. Finally, a custom-made dental crown is attached to the implant to complete your new tooth.
How Long to Wait to Get Dental Implants After a Tooth Extraction
The wait time for dental implants after a tooth extraction depends on factors such as your overall health and the condition of the surrounding gums and bone. Dental implant procedures can be divided into three main categories, which are:
- Immediate implant placement – This often happens when the gum tissue around the missing tooth area is healthy and there’s enough bone left. This approach can help stop bone loss and is often used when a tooth is lost due to injury or trauma.
- Early implant placement – Known as immediate-delayed implant placement, this procedure typically takes place two or three months after tooth extraction. This waiting period allows time for the gums and supporting tissue to heal. If there’s an infection, it must be treated before proceeding with the implant placement.
- Delayed implant placement – This placement is used when a tooth has decayed over time. If your gums, tissue, or bone are not healthy, delayed implant placement allows time for healing. A bone graft might be needed if there’s not enough support for the implant, which can take three to six months to heal.
If you’re unsure, talk to your dentist about when to get dental implants after a tooth extraction. They’ll help you decide what’s best for your smile!
About the Practice
The team at Premier Dental in Vero Beach is committed to enhancing smiles with their top-notch dental implant services. With their expertise and advanced training, they focus on restoring smiles with care and precision. Keeping up with the latest in dental technology, Premier Dental provides customized implant solutions for each patient. Let them help you regain a confident, functional smile with their specialized dental implant services. To schedule an appointment or learn more, contact Premier Dental at (772) 234-5353 or visit their website.