Many of our dental patients who learn they need dental implants to replace an extracted tooth or teeth want to know how soon they can get the implants placed. After all, they don’t want to lose eating functionality, and they don’t want to lose their beautiful smile either. Our doctors are very honest with patients and the answer to this question really depends on the patient’s unique situation. In some cases, immediate placement of dental implants is possible, while in other situations, waiting up to 6 to 8 months is the best option for the patient’s oral health.
Candidates for Immediate Dental Implants Placement
Some of our patients are eligible for immediate dental implants placement. To fit in this group, the patient must have sufficient jaw bone tissue where the natural tooth was extracted. He or she must also not have an active infection that requires treatment with antibiotics. If these requirements are met, the dental implant can be immediately placed, a temporary crown can be fitted, and the permanent crown can be placed after around 12 weeks of healing.
Patients Who Can Have Early Dental Implants Placement
Some of our patients who visit our oral surgery practice aren’t candidates for immediate dental implants placement, but may only need to wait 2 to 3 months to have their replacement teeth placed. These patients must have had sufficient healing within the first few months of their tooth extraction in order to be eligible for early dental implants placement.
Some patients may need a two phrase procedure for Dental Implants Placement
While we know it’s not the most desired situation, sometimes it’s in your best interest of your overall oral health to wait up to 6 to 8 months to have dental implants placed. Two main reasons for a longer delay in dental implants placement would include severe infection in the area or insufficient bone. Both of these can worsen over time if untreated so please be sure to keep up with your regular dental visits every 6 months, to help identify problem areas. If this situation is present, the patient may require a jaw bone graft surgery first in order to “grow” additional jaw bone tissue so that the dental implants can be properly placed.
Which Option is Right for You?
As you can see, there are several factors that determine when you are eligible to have dental implants placed. There’s no way for you yourself to know how long you’ll need to wait for your tooth replacement. Only a complete evaluation by our doctors, including special dental imaging, can determine when dental implants placement is ideal for your unique situation. If you have an achy tooth that you think may need to be removed, or have been told you need a tooth extraction, we understand you want it replaced as soon as possible. An appointment with our doctors can help give you the answer to that question. Call our office today to schedule an initial appointment at (817) 731-2789.