Is a Dental Implant Recommended After a Tooth Extraction?

tooth extraction Surfside, FL

It is reasonable to want a dental implant after tooth extraction, and many patients wonder if it is possible. The answer is generally yes, but it depends on factors such as the condition of the underlying jawbone and the type of tooth extracted. When a patient has a bad tooth that needs to be removed, the dentist will review the options for a replacement. Sometimes, the appropriate time to place dental implants is during the extraction, because then only one surgery is required.

Why dental implants?

Dental implants replace the root of the original teeth to give patients a dental restoration that appears and functions naturally. The implant sits inside the jawbone to provide support and stability for the bone as well as a resting place for a permanent dental crown or bridge.

When are implants often recommended?

A dentist may offer the patient the option of placing the implant after the tooth extraction. The deciding factors are the density and quality of the underlying jawbone and the oral health of the patient. When an implant is placed immediately after, the healing process tends to be easier because the patient will only undergo one surgical procedure. The dental implant placement is also easier because there is already a hole in the jaw for the implant.

Even if the extracted teeth are infected or damaged, the jaws and gums may still be healthy to hold the new implant. The jawbone will heal around the implant in a process called osseointegration to make the implant as strongly rooted as the real tooth was. Replacing a lost tooth with the implant right after tooth extraction helps to avert a condition known as bone resorption. It also means patients can begin the restoration process immediately, meaning shorter recovery and healing period.

What are other options for placing implants?

If patients are not eligible for implants immediately, they can still get the implants later or opt for immediate-delayed implants. The dentist may decide to place a temporary crown, but only after the implant has been in place for a few months.

The immediate-delayed implant is placed soon after tooth extraction, within a month or two, when there is a need to allow healing due to damages to the soft tissues of the gum. The damage may be caused by infection, especially if the cause of tooth removal was severe tooth decay. The dental implant dentist will discuss the treatment plan with the patient based on the individual situation.

If the jaw bone density or quantity or strength is not enough to hold implants, the patient will need to wait for about two months to allow the bone to heal. In this case, a separate bone graft surgery may be required to augment the bone. This may increase treatment time but the dental restoration will be long-lasting.

Final note

If you have a tooth that has gone bad and needs to be removed, our dentist will walk you through the tooth extraction process and explain your eligibility for dental implants.

Request an appointment here: https://balharbourdentist.com or call Bal Harbour Smiles at (305) 440-4229 for an appointment in our Surfside office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

Replacing A Missing Tooth With A Single Dental Implant

A general dentist can use a dental implant to replace a missing tooth. It can also be a solution to a failing tooth. This dental restoration is the most secure form of dental replacement. If you want to know more about replacing a lost tooth with a single dental implant, here are the details.One missing…

How To Care For Dental Implants

Dental implants are easy to care for at home and with regular visits with your general dentist. You can ensure your dental implants last for as long as possible by understanding useful tips for caring for your new teeth and periodontal health at home through good oral care and smart dietary and lifestyle choices. Dental implants…

What To Expect When Getting A Dental Implant To Replace A Missing Tooth

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that an implant dentist places in the jawbone so it can bond with the natural bone. This screw-shaped implant acts as a strong foundation to reinforce a replacement tooth. Modern dental implants have been used for over 30 years and are a great solution for missing teeth. Dental implants…

How Can A Dental Implant Dentist Restore A Lost Tooth?

For patients who have lost one or multiple teeth, a dental implant dentist may recommend implants. The procedure involves the surgical placement of a titanium metal post into the jaw to serve as the base for a new tooth replacement. Once the implant or implants are in place, there are a number of options a…

Recent Posts

Immediate Dentures Vs Conventional Dentures

Immediate Dentures Vs Conventional Dentures

Dentures are used to replace missing teeth, but two types of dentures can be used to do this: immediate dentures (also known as temporary dentures) and conventional dentures. Both kinds of dentures are durable and stable, but which one is right for you depends on your situation and how fast you need your tooth replacement…

Replacing A Missing Tooth With A Single Dental Implant

Replacing A Missing Tooth With A Single Dental Implant

A general dentist can use a dental implant to replace a missing tooth. It can also be a solution to a failing tooth. This dental restoration is the most secure form of dental replacement. If you want to know more about replacing a lost tooth with a single dental implant, here are the details.One missing…